Pittsfield Launches Applications for the Citizens Academy

07:57AM / Friday, July 11, 2025Print Story | Email Story

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Applications are now being accepted for the City of Pittsfield's Citizens Academy, which will begin in mid-August.

The Citizens Academy, a 12-week program, is designed to help community members understand the operations of local government. Participants will gain awareness on the various functions of city departments within municipal government, tour designated locations, and engage in breakout activities. Attendees also will learn more about service opportunities available within local government.

"We have seen continuous growth of this academy throughout the years and over 100 community members who have participated to date," said Catherine VanBramer, director of administrative services. "Community engagement is a vital part of my role with the city, and it is my hope that we encourage more members of our community to actively participate in their government. I look forward to welcoming a new class for the seventh year of the academy."

Class size will be limited to 25 participants. The sessions will be held on Thursday evenings between August 14 and November 6. The sessions will be held 6-8 p.m. at various locations throughout the city. During the sessions, participants will interact with department heads and other city staff to learn about the day-to-day operations, tour various workspaces, and participate in breakout activities.

To be eligible for the Citizens Academy, applicants must be at least 18, live or work in Pittsfield, and be able to attend each of the 12-week sessions to the best of their ability.

Upon completion of the program, participants will receive a certificate and be publicly recognized for their participation.

Program details are available on the city's website: Citizens Academy | Pittsfield, MA

To apply online, view the Citizens Academy online application.
To apply via mail, view the Citizens Academy mail-in application.
Paper copies are also available in the Mayor's Office at City Hall, 70 Allen Street.

Applications are due by 4 p.m. Friday, July 25. For additional information, please contact the Mayor's Office at (413) 499-9322 or email cvanbramer@cityofpittsfield.org.

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Pittsfield Committee Recommends Scanlon for City Audit

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff
04:30AM / Thursday, August 06, 2026

PITTSFIELD, Mass.— After the bid for a new auditing company came back over 30 percent higher, Pittsfield will stick with Scanlon and Associates.

On Tuesday, the Auditing Services Evaluation Committee voted to advance Scanlon to the City Council for an independent audit. CliftonLarsonAllen also responded to the bid, but came in costing $120,000 more.

"I have to go with saving money for the city. I mean, the discrepancy is too much of a difference," committee member Karen Kalinowsky said.

"The city could have use for that difference over the next three years."

This process was prompted by Rule 40 of the council rules and the City Charter, where in any year the City Council votes to hold a procurement process for an independent certified public accountant or firm to audit Pittsfield's books and accounts, the city must, through its Finance Committee with the assistance of the purchasing department, solicit requests for proposals or invitations for bids before June 1.

The council in March recommended that the purchasing agent draft a request for proposals and put it out to bid.

Ward 1 Councilor Kenneth Warren, who has been vocally in favor of the independent audit for years, said the city doesn't have to follow a bidding process for the professional service, "We are doing this so the public knows that we're being professional, and a looking for other options, looking at what the best options are, and comparing them based on what they can offer and what the cost is."

Board member Kathy Amuso said both CLA and Scanlon have equitable reviews with high recommendations. Especially considering the budget crisis Pittsfield is in, she moved to recommend Scanlon to the full council.

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