Letter: Macksey Is the Experienced Leader North Adams Needs

To the Editor:

During this election season, it's important to reflect on the challenges faced both locally and beyond. Municipalities across the state are in need of much to sustain — increased affordable housing, repairs to infrastructure and ADA compliance; the creation, recruitment, or growth of businesses; increased tourism; and so much more. We need a leader who has years of municipal experience, dedication to the City of North Adams, and will unite us.

That experienced leader is Jennifer Macksey.

North Adams may be a small city by population, but it is clearly remarkably spirited. While all residents may not share the same views, it's important to recognize that we share a common vision: respecting the city as it currently stands, while remaining inspired and motivated for improvements to come. Mayor Macksey has the experience and understanding to continue moving our city forward.

Among her accomplishments as mayor, she has ensured grant funding for a host of projects, including crucial repair or replacement of sidewalks and other citywide projects ensuring ADA compliance. As a community oriented leader, Jennifer Macksey has also worked to bring engaging events and celebrations for all ages to our down street — this is in addition to the successfully established and well-loved North Adams Recreation Center. Mayor Macksey has also been exploring alternatives to the current digital network as reliable and affordable internet access is essential for our community.

I personally know Mayor Macksey: she is kind and cordial by nature. She cares about North Adams, and puts in the time and effort to prove it. You will always see her at sporting events, down street festivities, and community gatherings. Mayor Macksey is the experienced candidate we need in the corner office. I encourage you to cast your vote for Jennifer Macksey as continued mayor of North Adams.

Christa Sprague
North Adams, Mass.

Berkshires Remember First Responders, Military Personnel Lost at 9/11 and Aftermath

By Jack Guerino & Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff
02:30PM / Friday, September 11, 2026

North Adams Mayor Jennifer Macksey, with Fire Chief Brent Lefebvre speaks at Friday's memorial. 

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The county's two cities held memorials on Friday morning to mark the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terror attacks. 

Great Barrington was scheduled to hold a dedication of piece of steel from the World Trade Center at 6 p.m.

North Adams held its ceremony in the fire station's side garden starting at exactly 8:46 a.m., the time Flight 11 crashed into the World Trade Center's North Tower.

 

The small square of grass was packed with police officers, firefighters, wire and alarm personnel, dispatchers, and Northern Berkshire EMS employees, and city employees, officials and community members. 

 

After the ceremonial tolling of the bell, an honor guard presented the colors.

 

Mayor Jennifer Macksey said it felt odd welcoming people to a very solemn event.

 

"What happened 25 years ago put a mark on emergency services. It put additional pressure on police, fire, EMS, and dispatchers," Macksey said. "While we remember those who lost their lives during 9/11, and those who ran to help as many as they could during 9/11, we have to pause and appreciate those who continue to serve despite that awful threat that occurred 25 years ago."

 

She said it was a direct attack on the United States and all of its people.

 

"It was a question of our freedoms and our ability to be safe in our communities," the mayor said. "I can say today that here in North Adams, it could happen to us, but I know with the professionalism of our Fire Department, Police Department, EMS, and our dispatch team, we are a better community; we are a safer community than we were 25 years ago."