BFAIR and UCP of Western Mass Announce Merger Progress

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NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — BFAIR and UCP of Western Massachusetts announced a milestone in their ongoing merger exploration, including a leadership transition that will position the combined organization for continued growth and impact in serving individuals with disabilities and their families across the region.

Following a joint agreement by the Boards of Directors of both BFAIR and UCP of Western Massachusetts, Randy Kinnas has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of both organizations. This appointment marks a step in the unification process, establishing a single, unified executive leadership structure to guide the merged entity through its next chapter.

"We are proud to move forward together under unified leadership," said Randy Kinnas, CEO of BFAIR and UCP of Western Massachusetts. "This merger represents a shared commitment to expanding the quality and reach of services for the individuals and families we are privileged to serve. Together, we are stronger."

Both Boards also recognize the retirement of Ethel Altiery, who served as Interim CEO with distinction. Her steady, compassionate leadership during a critical period of transition has been invaluable to both organizations. Altiery’s guidance helped lay the foundation for the unified future that BFAIR and UCP of Western Massachusetts now pursue.

"Ethel’s leadership during this transition has been a true gift to both organizations and to the people we serve," said Randy Kinnas. "We are deeply grateful for her dedication, her wisdom, and her heart. We wish her all the best in a well-deserved retirement."

The merger of BFAIR and UCP of Western Massachusetts brings together two longstanding organizations with a shared mission: to support individuals with disabilities in living full, meaningful, and self-directed lives. By combining resources, expertise, and community relationships, the merged organization will be better equipped to expand services, strengthen programs, and advocate for those who depend on them.

Both Boards of Directors have approved this leadership structure as part of the broader integration plan, reflecting their confidence in a unified future that honors the legacy of both organizations while embracing new opportunities for impact. 


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North Adams Housing Authority Director Steps Down

Staff Reports

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Jennifer Hohn, the longtime executive director of the North Adams Housing Authority (NAHA), has stepped down after 24 years with the agency.

The Berkshire Eagle reported that Hohn resigned from her position on Thursday. The NAHA Board of Commissioners is currently developing a transition plan.

Her resignation follows rising tension between Hohn and the tenants association. Residents—particularly at the Spring and Ashland Park apartments—have raised specific concerns regarding building security, drug activity, and trespassers.

This summer, Tenants Association President Corey Fortin posted a video on social media demonstrating that door alarms in some of the buildings were not functioning.

Shortly after the video was posted, the tenants association's office was locked. Members alleged Hohn locked the space in retaliation, while Hohn maintained it was a matter of tenant safety. Hohn also stated that NAHA does not officially recognize the association because it has yet to go through official channels for certification—a claim the tenants association disputes.

The dispute culminated in plans for a formal grievance hearing between Hohn and the association. Both sides agreed to hold a meeting on Oct. 3, but the hearing had not yet been scheduled at the time of her resignation.
During her tenure as director, Hohn oversaw significant changes at NAHA, including expansion and the dissolution of Housing Opportunities Incorporated, a program founded over 30 years ago to assist first-time homebuyers. Most recently, she led efforts to transition NAHA properties from traditional public housing models to the Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program. She also directed the rebuilding of a Greylock Valley Apartments building after it was severely damaged by a fire.

The NAHA Board of Commissioners meets monthly, typically on Mondays.

 

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