Copyright berkshireeagle
As Pittsfield voters prepare to head to the polls on Tuesday, Nov. 4, we offer the following recommendations for City Council — candidates who demonstrate the experience, integrity and pragmatic leadership needed to keep our city moving forward. At-large councilors Four at-large seats will be decided on Tuesday. Peter White and Earl Persip III have proven to be the steady hands on the council. Both bring level-headed leadership and a commitment to keeping discussion civil and productive. White, in particular, knows city operations inside and out. He’s unafraid to take unpopular stances when they serve the city’s long-term interests and is widely regarded as a resource for colleagues who need clarity or context on complex issues. Persip brings a similar calm focus and collaborative spirit that help the council function as it should — with balance and reason. Alisa Costa deserves a seat alongside them. Her background as a housing policy analyst and project manager gives her a much-needed perspective on one of Pittsfield’s most pressing challenges. Costa’s professional experience, combined with her connections to local advocacy groups, will help bridge city policy and community needs. As for the fourth at-large seat, we see two strong options in Sara Hathaway and Kathy Amuso. Both are experienced public servants who take a thoughtful approach to policy. Hathaway, a former mayor, brings deep institutional knowledge and a willingness to push for creative ideas — including efforts to seek state relief on the city’s cap for liquor licenses. Hathaway’s policy instincts remain a clear asset, and her recent experience on the school committee will bring insight to the council. Amuso often serves as a voice of reason, viewing issues through a compassionate and practical lens, plus she brings diverse experience from service on city boards. City voters would be well-served by Hathaway or Amuso, though we see Hathaway’s past recent school committee and mayoral experience as points in her favor. Cam Cunningham is the clear choice. An engineer at General Dynamics, Cunningham combines technical expertise with empathy and initiative. He’s already shown his commitment by attending City Council meetings regularly and contributing thoughtful ideas, including the creation of a dedicated city grant writer position. His accessibility and preparation make him a promising new leader. Patrick Kavey has earned another term. As chair of the city’s Community and Economic Development Committee, Kavey has helped attract new businesses — including Lee Bank’s expansion into Ward 5 — and continues to demonstrate a deep understanding of the issues facing his constituents. His responsiveness and dedication are exemplary; residents know they can count on him to listen and act. His challenger, Michael Grady, offers little in the way of a concrete platform, while Kavey’s record and engagement speak for themselves. Dina Lampiasi stands out for her sharp policy acumen and genuine compassion. Drawing on her experience in the state Attorney General’s office, she approaches legislation with analytical rigor and a deep understanding of how laws affect residents’ daily lives. Alongside Kavey, she’s worked to develop humane, practical solutions — such as joint petitions urging the city to craft an emergency camping plan that balances public health with dignity for those without housing. Lampiasi comes to meetings prepared and principled, a combination Pittsfield likes. Kathy Moody offers voters a moderate, thoughtful alternative to incumbent Tony Maffuccio. Moody is deeply engaged with the issues facing Pittsfield’s downtown and neighborhoods. She’s done her homework, particularly on homelessness and public space policy, taking the position that no camping ban should pass without a designated and sanitary encampment area. An engineer by training with the Department of Defense, she combines analytical skill with a personable, accessible approach to leadership. The bottom line This year’s ballot gives Pittsfield voters an opportunity to strengthen the council with experienced, pragmatic voices who understand both the technical and human sides of governing. For their proven records, accessibility and commitment to balanced leadership, we endorse: At-large: Peter White, Earl Persip, Alisa Costa and Sara Hathaway Ward 2: Cam Cunningham Ward 5: Patrick Kavey Ward 6: Dina Lampiasi Ward 7: Kathy Moody These candidates represent Pittsfield’s best chance to keep progress steady, solutions practical and government responsive to all.
