Berkshire Habitat Launches Fundraiser in Memory of Stephen Heller

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Central Berkshire Habitat for Humanity announced a tribute in memory of Stephen Heller.
 
Launched by his sister Elaine Cottle and her family, this initiative celebrates Heller's enduring love for community and craftsmanship by raising funds for a central gazebo at Prosperity Way, Habitat's newest 20-home neighborhood in Housatonic.
 
Heller passed away in 2023 at the age of 65, leaving behind a legacy of generosity. A masterful craftsman turned computer programmer, Heller held an admiration for Habitat for Humanity's mission and was particularly drawn to the Housatonic build site near his family home. His values aligned with the core of Habitat's work: dignity, kindness, and the belief in building not only homes—but community.
 
To honor his life, the Heller-Cottle family has partnered with Central Berkshire Habitat to create a gazebo and green gathering space at the heart of Prosperity Way. This central spot will serve as a lasting tribute—where families can gather, children can play, and neighbors can connect.
 
Elaine Cottle will be undertaking a 360-mile memorial cycling journey along the Erie Canal Bikeway, from Albany to Buffalo, beginning June 16 and concluding June 28. Inspired by their shared love of upstate New York and family memories along the canal, Elaine rides in Heller's
honor, with hope in every mile. Community members are invited to join any part of the ride or support the cause with a donation.
 
"Every gift made in Stephen's name is more than a donation—it's a living tribute to a life defined by generosity, love, and a belief in the power of community," said Cottle. "Help us build a place where memories bloom and neighbors thrive, just as Stephen would have wanted."
 
How to Support the Fundraiser Visit: https://donorbox.org/memoryofstephen

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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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