|
Democrat Supports Whetsel in PV Primary
To the Editor:
As a member of the Putnam Valley Democratic Committee and an early supporter of Sam Davis for Town Supervisor, I am writing to convey my strong support for Councilwoman Wendy Whetsel in the Democratic primary on September 18.
Although I credit Dr. Davis with his hard work and commitment to environmental issues, I have reluctantly concluded that he has not shown the characteristics of good leadership that would have brought him more success in this position.
It seems to me that the Town Supervisor position is one that requires the ability to listen to concerns of all community members, to carefully consider all the ramifications of actions taken, and to develop consensus among all parties so as to act on the best interests of the town as a whole. It also requires the ability to acknowledge mistakes when necessary and to learn from them. This may sometimes require compromise, or less than perfect solutions, but in the long run the interests of the town are better served.
After much careful reflection I have come to the conclusion that Wendy Whetsel does possess in abundance the maturity and good judgment that this town needs. She is very knowledgeable and committed to protecting our environment yet is not an inflexible ideologue. She understands that there are many competing interests making demands on the Town Board, and she has the wisdom to acknowledge how strongly people feel about their positions without giving way on her own values. She has shown the ability to focus on the important issues facing our town without getting bogged down in irrelevant controversies. She has said to me many times that this campaign is about community in the broadest sense of the word. She does not feel it is right for opponents to make personal attacks when there are legitimate disagreements that ought to be resolved through respectful discussions.
What a relief it will be to just get on with the good governance of our Putnam Valley.
I believe that Wendy Whetsel can provide the kind of mature yet visionary leadership this town so sorely needs. I strongly urge Democrats to come to the polls and support her candidacy on September 18.
Lauren A. Carner
Putnam Valley
| 
