Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito was in Pittsfield Tuesday to sign agreements with a number of western Massachusetts communities. They are designed to improve how local governments operate and complete infrastructure projects.With the addition of Pittsfield, Cheshire, Hinsdale and Williamstown, 198 municipalities have signed community compacts with the Republican administration in about a year. A $25,000 state grant is meant to help Pittsfield develop long-range financial planning and improve budget transparency, according to Mayor Linda Tyer.
“Pittsfield is grappling with emerging and significant financial constraints,” Tyer said. “I’m confident that the work that’s completed through the Community Compact will position us for better decision-making.”
Cheshire and Hinsdale will use their agreements to develop master plans and Williamstown will focus on street improvements.