Berkshire Agricultural Groups Receive Over $124K in State Grants

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Healey-Driscoll Administration has announced significant grant funding to support agricultural initiatives across Massachusetts, with several organizations in Berkshire County receiving awards.
 
The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) will manage these grants through three programs: the Agricultural Fairs Infrastructure Grant Program, Farmers Market Sustainability Grant Program, and Buy Local Grant Program.
 
"Agricultural fairs are an important part of Massachusetts' farming history and traditions," said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. "These fairs, along with farmers markets, highlight the strength of our agricultural industry. The grants will help them stay active and provide valuable cultural, educational, and economic opportunities to our communities."
 
Through the Farmers Market Sustainability Grant Program, four Berkshire County farmers markets will receive funds to enhance their operations. The Lee Farmers Market has been awarded $4,000. Roots Rising, which manages the Pittsfield Indoor and Outdoor Farmers Markets, will receive $10,000. 
 
"Pittsfield's farmers market is an important part of our community, and it is vital that we invest in the farmers to ensure there is healthy food available for all here in Pittsfield and the Berkshires," said State Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier. "I am proud that we are investing in farmers markets that bring our communities together and, in turn, the farmers that feed us."
 
The Sheffield Association, overseeing the Sheffield Summer and Winter Farmers Markets, has also been granted $10,000. Additionally, the Williamstown Farmers Market will receive $8,574.50. These grants aim to bolster strategic planning and consumer marketing efforts, ultimately increasing customer engagement and sales for local farmers within these markets.
 
Furthermore, Berkshire Grown has been awarded $91,788.96 through the Buy Local Grant Program. This funding will support their ongoing efforts to connect local farmers with their communities and educate consumers on the importance of purchasing locally grown products. Berkshire Grown plays a vital role in raising awareness and increasing demand for farm-fresh goods throughout the region.

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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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