1Berkshire's Berkshire Leadership Program Accepting Applications

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — 1Berkshire's Berkshire Leadership Program (BLP) Class of 2026 will kick off with a two-day retreat Friday, April 24 and Saturday, April 25, which includes training in many facets of leadership, problem-solving techniques, and networking. 
 
"The Berkshire Leadership Program is one of the most comprehensive ways to learn about the community and a great opportunity for additional professional development," said Christine Hoyt, 1Berkshire Director of Member Services and BLP Coordinator.  
 
The retreat is followed by weekly sessions held on Thursdays, April 30 - June 25, focusing on areas of economic development, healthcare, tourism, creative economy, education, and community involvement.
 
The Berkshire Leadership Program is coordinated by 1Berkshire with the support of the volunteer BLP Steering Committee, composed of professionals from across the region who commit their time and expertise to develop and facilitate the entire program.
 
"The Berkshire Leadership Program changes how you see yourself and your community," said Abigail Allard, Chair of the BLP Steering Committee. "Each cohort brings together emerging and established leaders from every corner of the Berkshires to learn, problem-solve, and build relationships that last well beyond the program. Creating a network that opens doors—with scholarships to help make participation possible. If you're ready to grow your impact, this is the place to start."
 
2026 BLP class applications are open. The deadline to apply for the Class of 2026 is 4:00 pm on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. The cost of tuition is $800; some scholarship dollars are available.  
 
The application and a full program schedule can be found at:  
 

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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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