Andrew Fitch is a community leader who works tirelessly for the issues and causes that impact Berkshire County families. A small business owner, City Councilor, and non-profit booster, Andrew’s energy and productivity are boundless – consistently delivering results for residents – and demonstrating fresh and invigorated leadership in the region.
A Massachusetts-native, Andrew moved to the Berkshires 5 years ago, determined and ready to serve, earning a City Council seat as a North Adams newcomer. He purchased a latent Main Street property and transformed it into a now-thriving community gathering spot, further enhancing the continued revitalization of a once-dormant downtown district. Elevating issues of personal importance, Andrew completes annual solo-adventure treks that raise awareness and money for regional causes.
High Energy, High Impact
Winning his seat on the North Adams City Council as the highest vote getter in the two most recent city-wide elections, Andrew uses his voice on the Council to champion issues that hit home for most county residents, including affordable housing, repairing failed municipal infrastructure, stoking economic development, and improving state-wide education funding models. To help create pathways to home ownership for residents in an increasingly difficult economic climate, Andrew authored legislation that established North Adams’ first-ever Affordable Housing Trust, which will set-up programs for first-time homebuyers, support residents who need to update their homes, and stimulate new housing development.
Steeple City Social, Andrew’s small business, is in the heart of North Adams’ revitalized downtown. Enlivening a city block with good food, drinks, and an activated audience, in its monthly “Community Conversations” series, Steeple City Social hosts local organizations like Hoosic River Revival to engage community members in a warm environment where all are welcome. Vibrant from early ‘til late night, you’ll often find Andrew behind the counter serving coffee, lunch, drinks, and baked delights – some days morning, noon, and night – with a smile.
An outdoor enthusiast, Andrew uses his summer birthday to marry epic solo-adventure pursuits with fundraising for important causes. Andrew trekked the length of Massachusetts, from Williamstown to Provincetown, to raise funds for women’s health issues. He walked the length of Berkshire County, through its small towns and community centers – from Ashley Falls to Clarksburg – to drum up money and support for North Adams boarded a train with his bike in Boston, disembarked at its western terminus of Fitchburg, then cycled from Fitchburg to North Adams.
Commitment, Community, Compassion
Throughout Andrew’s education and career, community has been at the heart of every decision he’s made and action he’s taken. Returning to his home state of Massachusetts after studying in Virginia and abroad, he visited North Adams and was immediately moved to relocate to the state’s smallest city. Since establishing Berkshire roots, which include purchasing and renovating a historic home and landmark commercial building in North Adams and being elected to City Council, where he chairs the Community Development Committee, serves on the Finance Committee, and is a city liaison to the Airport Commission. Among his many commitments as a community member, Andrew organizes the city’s First Friday street fair, is a founder of North Adams’ Pride celebration, and is a board member of the North Adams Chamber of Commerce.