BRPC Invites Applications for Home Modification Loan Program

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PITTSFIELD, Mass — The Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) is now accepting applications for the Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP).

This state-funded, no-interest loan program assists homeowners and landlords (with fewer than 10 units) in making necessary accessibility modifications to keep disabled or elderly family members in their homes.

Eligible modifications include bathroom and kitchen adjustments, ramps, stair lifts, platform lifts, sensory/therapy spaces, hard-wired alarm systems, fences, and accessory dwelling units. However, this program does not cover general home repairs such as roofing, window replacements, or heating system repairs. All work must be completed by licensed and insured contractors.

Property owners may qualify for 0 percent interest loans ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, with repayment required only when the property is sold or transferred. For owners of manufactured or mobile homes, loan amounts range from $1,000 to $30,000.

All applications are subject to HMLP eligibility requirements. For more information, visit www.cedac.org/hmlp or contact Brett Roberts at HMLP@berkshireplanning.org.


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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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