Ferry Joins Pittsfield Co-op as Commercial Banking Leader

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Pittsfield Cooperative Bank announced that Michael Ferry has come out of retirement to join the bank as its new SVP, Commercial Banking. 
 
With more than 40 years of experience in the local banking industry, including 34 years with Berkshire Bank, Mr. Ferry brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role.
 
Prior to his retirement, Mr. Ferry served as Senior Vice President and Commercial Regional President for Berkshire County and Vermont markets at Berkshire Bank. In this capacity, he led commercial lending, relationship management and related services, demonstrating a strong commitment to fostering economic growth within the regions. Additionally, he previously held the position of President of the Berkshire Bank Foundation. Ferry currently serves as a Director of The Feigenbaum Foundation further exemplifying his dedication to community development.
 
Beyond his professional achievements, Ferry has been an active participant in various community organizations. He has served as a board member and treasurer for Berkshire County Arc for 16 years and was elected as the organization's Chairman of the Board in July 2020.
 
In his new role at Co-op Bank, Ferry will oversee the commercial banking division, focusing on expanding services and strengthening relationships with local businesses. His leadership is expected to enhance the bank's ability to provide tailored financial solutions that meet the unique needs of the community as well as mentor a growing commercial team that recently won Banker & Tradesman’s 50 Fastest Growing Commercial Lenders.
 
Michael P. Daly, CEO of Co-op Bank, expressed enthusiasm about Ferry's appointment.
 
"We are thrilled to welcome Mike Ferry to our team. His extensive experience and deep-rooted commitment to the Berkshires align perfectly with our mission to support local businesses and contribute to the economic vitality of the region," Daly said.
 
Ferry shared his excitement about joining the bank, stating, 
 
"I am excited to join Pittsfield Cooperative Bank and look forward to working with the team to deliver exceptional service to our commercial customers," Ferry said. "Together, we will continue to support the growth and success of businesses in our community."
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Hinsdale OKs Police Department Audit After Fatal Shooting

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

HINSDALE, Mass. — The town has approved $25,000 for an administrative review of the police department, more than two months after police fatally shot 27-year-old Biagio Kauvil during a mental health crisis. 

Town Administrator Robert Graves said the shooting on Jan. 7 is not the only focus of the audit, and it will be several months before the Select Board receives a final report. 

During a special town meeting on March 11, an article appropriating $25,000 from free cash for an independent consultant to conduct a professional evaluation and audit of the Town's Police Department was approved. The audit includes a review of the department's policies, protocols, operations, and procedures, and concludes with a written report. 

"The Berkshire County District Attorney's Office and Massachusetts State Police are investigating the shooting, and we await their conclusions.  As we look to move forward, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, our insurance company (MIIA/Cabot Risk), and our legal counsel have recommended that the town hire an independent law enforcement consultant or firm to conduct a comprehensive administrative review of our police operation," Graves wrote in an email to iBerkshires on Friday. 

"This event is not their focus; they will assess the overall operation. We want a written assessment of our police operation's strengths and weaknesses to help Hinsdale make future changes and improvements." 

He said after completing the procurement process and signing a contract with a reputable consultant or business, it will most likely be several months before the Select Board receives the final report. 

"Still, it will help the town and police department move forward," Graves wrote. 

Last weekend, family and friends of Kauvil stood in Park Square asking for justice. A flier for the standout reads "Biagio was killed by police while experiencing a mental health crisis. Now, over seven weeks later, authorities have not yet provided any updates.

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