Pittsfield's Department of Community Development Launches Public Survey

08:47AM / Friday, December 05, 2025Print Story | Email Story

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The City of Pittsfield's Department of Community Development has announced the availability of a survey to receive public input regarding community needs.

In collaboration with VHB, the Department has initiated a year-long planning process aimed at crafting a Master Plan that will guide the city's growth and change while preserving its unique character and reflecting shared community values. The updated Master Plan will serve as a key policy document for physical development, addressing critical areas such as land use, infrastructure and sustainability.

In addition to public meetings, the survey is a key part of the planning process. Responses will help the city understand community priorities, identify areas for improvement, and shape goals and strategies that reflect the collective vision of Pittsfield. The survey, and more information about the planning process, can be found on the city's website: 2025 Master Plan Update | Pittsfield, MA

For more information about this survey and related Master Plan work, email City Planner, Kevin Rayner at krayner@cityofpittsfield.org.

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Peace Officer Standards Commission Strips Former Pittsfield Cop of Certification

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff
02:52PM / Tuesday, August 25, 2026

PITTSFIELD, Mass.— A former Pittsfield Police officer was one of five statewide who recently had their licenses revoked by the POST Commission.

Last week, the Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Commission voted to strip five former officers of their licenses to work in law enforcement, including former PPD officer William Straub.

The commission had determined that these workers were unfit to carry a badge and gun in Massachusetts; so far, 92 state police officers have been decertified by the commission.

Records indicate that Straub faced charges tied to a 2024 incident, but details are redacted. On Oct. 31, 2024, the POST Commission suspended Straub's law enforcement certification, and he resigned from PPD in April.

"According to Pittsfield District Court records, Straub pleaded guilty in April to two counts of misdemeanor assault and battery tied to a 2024 incident," MassLive wrote on Monday.

"Three other charges, including drunk driving and carrying a firearm while intoxicated, were continued without a finding. While that resolution allows the charges to be dismissed after a period of time if Straub abides by certain conditions, the commission treats them as a criminal conviction."

According to records, he was certified as a police officer in July of 2021, and recertified in July 2024.

"The Respondent's appointing agency, the Pittsfield Police Department ("PPD"), submitted a final report to the Commission finding that the Respondent had engaged in criminal conduct and conduct unbecoming [of] an officer," the Aug. 20 final decision to decertify reads.

"The Respondent resigned from PPD on April 9, 2026, prior to the imposition of any discipline."

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