Whetsel Takes High Road

To the Editor:

In the June 2 edition of the Journal News the chairwoman of the Putnam Valley Democratic Committee noted to the writer that incumbent Wendy Whetsel was not endorsed by the Town Committee because she did not adhere to the Democratic platform. In particular, chairwoman Orenstein was quoted as saying that Mrs. Whetsel did not support the building moratorium put forth by then supervisor Sam Davis.

In fact Mrs. Whetsel was a strong supporter of the building moratorium, and it was I who disagreed with the moratorium. Mrs. Whetsel and I had many conversations in which she tried to convince me of the importance of passing that resolution. I could not in good conscience change my mind, so in the end she suggested we simply remove it from the agenda, leaving open the possibility of voting it in at any time in the future (having had all the necessary public hearings).

In her usual fashion, Mrs. Whetsel graciously took the high road in her response in that article, rather than tear down another member of her team (myself). She has always been a quiet, dignified and powerful presence in our community, refusing to sling mud at her opponents, and working tirelessly for alternative energy concepts that do not stress taxpayers; lower taxes for the citizens of Putnam Valley; and as much green space as is legally permissible.

She is the best candidate for Putnam Valley Town Board in my opinion, and has my total support. Wendy truly represents the mainstream Democrats in our community. She will continue to serve as a strong voice for all the people in Putnam Valley always willing to listen and compromise when necessary. She is the only true solid choice for Councilperson this September for the primary, and in November for the general election.
Priscilla Keresey
Town Council
Putnam Valley