Letter: Macksey Supports Local Businesses

Letter to the Editor02:00PM / Tuesday, October 28, 2025Print Story | Email Story

To the Editor:

I am pleased to offer my full endorsement for Jennifer Macksey as the mayor of North Adams. Throughout her tenure and service to our community, Jennifer has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the future of North Adams —one that reflects the values of our rich history, progress, opportunity, and inclusivity.

Jennifer's dedication to supporting youth programs is evident in her continued advocacy for initiatives that provide our younger generations with the tools, mentorship, and opportunities they need to thrive. She understands that investing in our youth today is essential to ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for our local community.

She also stands as a steadfast supporter of local businesses, recognizing their vital role in the economic fabric of North Adams. From promoting policies that help small businesses grow, to fostering an environment where entrepreneurs can thrive, Jennifer is ensuring that our local economy will flourish for years to come. Though my personal interactions through my business have been minimal, when I needed help the most, Jennifer showed up and worked hard for my business and staff.

Jennifer knows that real progress takes time, and she has rolled up her sleeves to tackle some of the most pressing infrastructure issues facing North Adams. Her ability to balance immediate needs with long-term vision makes her the right person to lead our city through a period of rebuilding and renewal.

She is working tirelessly, collaborating with community leaders and residents alike to turn the vision into a reality — one that will strengthen North Adams and allow for future investors and local growth, alike.

I wholeheartedly support Jennifer Macksey and encourage others to do the same. She is the qualified candidate that North Adams deserves — one who listens, works hard, and cares deeply about the future of our city.

Matt Tatro
North Adams, Mass.

Tags: election 2025, mayor, municipal election,

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NAHA Board Accepts Director's Resignation, Unlocks Tenants Association Office

By Jack GuerinoiBerkshires Staff
03:33PM / Friday, October 16, 2026

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The North Adams Housing Authority Board of Commissioners officially accepted the resignation of Executive Director Jennifer Hohn and restored access to the Tenants Association office.

The board held a special meeting Thursday to vote to accept Hohn's resignation and determined that there are currently no plans to replace her.

"We didn't make any final determinations in terms of the executive session so we will schedule another meeting at another time," Chairwoman Leigh Uqdah said after returning from more than an hour session. "Day-to-day operations will continue to be managed as normal by staff."

Per their bylaws, board member Marie Harpin will continue to handle finances, and Uqdah will manage contracts.

Hohn stepped down on Oct. 8 after 24 years leading the agency. Her resignation followed rising tension between her and the NAHA Tenants Association, culminating in the scheduling of a formal grievance hearing between both parties.

The boiling point was the locking of the association's office this summer. Tenants alleged the lockout was retaliation for posting a video on social media depicting improperly functioning door alarms. Hohn claimed the office was locked for tenant safety and to stop the spread of misinformation.

Tenants Association President Corey Fortin asked if Hohn's security access had been removed. Uqdah confirmed her credentials were revoked the day she resigned, meaning she can no longer monitor security cameras remotely.

Jennifer Barbeau, a former city councilor who was liaison to the Housing Authority, asked when the board met to discuss Hohn's severance package. Uqdah stated that Hohn did not have one.

The board also accepted the resignation of Commissioner Richard Lavigne, though they will vote officially on the matter at their next meeting.

The open portion of the meeting was brief, with nearly an hour and a half spent in executive session. Before entering executive session, the board opened the floor to tenants.

"The tenants requested an opportunity to talk to the board," said Uqdah. "It has been quite a while, but we have decided to honor that."

Fortin, who posted the original video to social media, was the first to speak. He was clear in his request: unlock the office door.

"Let's cut straight to the chase tonight. The former resigned Director Jennifer Hohn ordered the office locked," he alleged. "She is gone. The lockout is a direct violation, and the board has a duty to end that tonight."

He cited federal and state laws that mandate the tenants association be provided with office space, including computer and network access.

"We are here with a direct administrative demand. We demand that the board vote tonight to unlock the doors," he said. "Do not let a resigned director's illegal action remain the board's ongoing liability. Open our door tonight, and let us get back to work."

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