To the editor:
There are many roles people must take on to make a community vibrant, safe and desirable. In the beautiful Berkshires we are blessed to be surrounded by world renowned cultural institutions — we have more nonprofits per capita then any other county in our state. We’re surrounded by natural beauty and vibrant downtowns year round. And our visitors and residents notice. We are a destination county and we do this well.
But we need to be more. We need to be a live-here, year-round destination. We are losing population each year, primarily younger individuals.T here are many reasons this is occurring and many organizations and groups are looking at ways to attract new populations to the Berkshires. And every intricate part matters: economy, quality of life, great school systems and safe neighborhoods for individuals and families to live in.
The good thing is we’re making progress. We continue to add new and exciting jobs, investments are being made in our downtowns as people return to them. In order to continue this progress, we need to look at the issues that are less desirable to discuss but a reality: poverty, an opioid epidemic and crime. These issues are not being properly or progressively addressed by our current District Attorney’s office.
Our two cities, North Adams and Pittsfield, have some the highest crime rates in the state. How did we let this happen? The idea of cycling low level offenders through our jailing system is not working. We need to focus on progressive ideas to help our suffering community members, prevent crime and focus on strong prosecution of violent and dangerous criminals. All across our state, progressive District Attorney offices are taking new approaches and they are working. Why should we let our beautiful county get stuck with something and someone that isn’t working? We need change.
My choice in change is Andrea Harrington for District Attorney. She is progressive, intelligent, energetic and resourceful. I know that she would bring new energy, ideas and funding for our District Attorney’s office and help our community members. Her campaign has been organized and she’s raised the recognition, accolades and funds to win. She’s poised and strong with her words. She can win. I hope you will join me and work to continuously move our Berkshires forward with a vote for Andrea Harrington for Berkshire District Attorney on September 4th.
Darcie Sosa
Dalton
