Dalton Green Committee Hosts Climate Solutions Fair Sunday

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DALTON, Mass.—The town invites community members to its Climate Solutions Fair at the Stationery Factory this Sunday, Oct. 13, at 1 p.m. 
 
Dalton’s environmental consultant, Blue Strike Environmental, will headline the event with a multi-media presentation on the key components of the Climate Action Plan, followed by an information session for community members. 
 
The Green Committee members will also present their draft climate action plan survey. The event will feature survey workshops, during which attendees can provide input on ways to improve the survey.
 
The community survey is part of a broad community engagement strategy to ensure all voices are heard and have access to the resources they need. 
 
The event will also delve into the benefits of electric vehicle ownership and solar power for homes, review state and federal incentives to increase home energy efficiency, and have other environmental conversations. 
 
“The comprehensive outreach survey will help us provide a plan securely founded on the actual wishes and priorities of its residents,” said Bob Bishop, Select Board chair.
 
“I am very pleased with how the Green Dalton Committee is approaching this important task.”  
 
Dalton became a designated Green Community in 2013. It is now working with its environmental consultant, Blue Strike Environmental, and community stakeholders to create a climate action plan. 
 
The plan aims to mitigate the causes and effects of climate change. It will provide a roadmap for the town’s climate action over the next eight to 12 years and align with the state's mandate to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. 
 
“Our focus over the coming months is ensuring the plan includes collaboration with community stakeholders, social equity considerations, and ongoing community education,” Green Committee chair David Wasielewski said. 
 
Senator Paul Mark commended Dalton for committing to develop a Climate Action Plan to achieve the state’s climate goals. 
 
The state legislature passed the Act Creating a Next Generation Roadmap for Massachusetts climate policy in 2022. 
 
The goal is to achieve net zero Greenhouse Gas emissions by 2050, with interim targets in 2030 and 2040. 
 
Dalton is taking the necessary steps to put this ambitious goal within reach,” Mark said.  
 
“I applaud Dalton for seeking ways to reduce Greenhouse  Gas emissions to improve public health and protect the environment for the next generation,” state representative Smitty Pignatelli added. 
 
The fair’s schedule and additional details, including survey workshop times, are here. 
 
More information about Dalton’s Climate Action plan and the Oct. 13th event here
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Berkshire Money Management Welcomes Financial Advisor

DALTON, Mass. — Berkshire Money Management (BMM) announced that Financial Advisor PJ Gagne, AIF has joined the firm. 
 
He brings a grounded, values-based approach to financial planning, helping professionals and business owners in their 50s and 60s answer financial questions and move toward retirement with clarity and confidence.
 
Gagne specializes in guiding clients through decisions—such as when to take Social Security, how to protect their children's future, and how to turn a lifetime of hard work into long-term financial security. His collaborative planning style helps clients understand their best-case scenarios while preparing for uncertainties.
 
"PJ's ability to simplify complex decisions and help clients move forward confidently makes him a tremendous addition to our team," said Allen Harris, Founder and CEO of Berkshire Money Management. "His expertise will support our continued growth as we expand services across the region and open our new Williamstown office."
 
As the firm announced earlier this year, BMM's newest location at 136 Water Street, Williamstown will be open by appointment later this month.
 
Gagne lives in South Hadley with his wife, their children, and pets. He enjoys home projects, coaching soccer, and time with family. He holds a BA in Economics from Fairfield University and is an Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF).
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