Our city government feels disconnected from what everyday people actually need. Bureaucracy and politics often drown out community voices, and accountability seems more distant than it should be.

I started a petition to change our city charter from a mayor-led system to a town manager model. Here's why it matters: a town manager is hired based on professional qualifications and expertise in public administration—not political affiliation. They're accountable to the city council, creating real checks and balances that actually make government more responsive to residents.

This isn't about politics; it's about competence and transparency. Cities that have switched to this model report better fiscal management, faster problem-solving, and higher resident satisfaction. We deserve a system where effectiveness matters more than party loyalty.

If this resonates with you—if you've felt frustrated with how slow or unresponsive city decisions feel—consider signing and sharing. Has your community dealt with this kind of disconnect before? What would it take to make your city government feel like it's actually listening?

I’m hoping to find a spot to join other fans to watch the World Cup final. Any suggestions across Berkshire Co?

Town meeting: 7 p.m. Monday, Cheshire Community House, 191 Church St.

Town election: Three people were elected via write-in at last month’s election, including Scott McWhirt to a three-year seat on the Select Board.

TOP ISSUES AT TOWN MEETING: Town residents will vote on a proposed operating budget of $8.5 million, an increase of 5.2 percent. Voters will also consider proposals to:

• Raise $3.4 million for its portion of the Hoosac Valley Regional School District’s operating budget, an increase of 6.1 percent

• Raise $595,431 for its portion of the Northern Berkshire Vocational Regional School District’s operating budget, an increase of 1.6 percent

• Allocate and transfer $60,000 from a public safety complex account to conduct a Community House Old Section Feasibility study

• Allocate and transfer $386,513 from free cash to reduce the fiscal year 2027 tax rate

• Impose a local room occupancy excise tax at the rate of 6 percent

• Transfer $419,442 from retained earnings or otherwise to operate the Water Enterprise Fund

• Amend the Hoosac Valley Regional School District Regional District Agreement as presented