To the editor:
My name is Joel Hotchkiss; I am a 30-year resident of West Stockbridge. In addition, my wife, Sandra, and I have owned and operated a thriving business in the downtown area—a village that we have loved because of the camaraderie and support from neighboring businesses, the support of our local town boards, and the clients and customers who love coming to our town.
We are writing to endorse Kathleen Keresey for re-election to the West Stockbridge Select Board. Kathleen has our full support and the support of many of our friends and neighbors who live and own businesses in West Stockbridge.
Jon Piasecki, Kathleen Keresey’s opponent’s approach to running the town seems to be filled with anger and divisiveness—these are not qualities to be admired, nor are they viewed as professional qualifications which are necessary to run a town. Mr. Piasecki also seems to think this election is about a single issue. In his letter to the editor dated April 29, 2023, he throws around some very serious charges of “class wars” and “racism.” He also casts vague aspersions and wandering social theories, which are simply illogical. He talks about the working people and the elderly, but he offers no mention of what he proposes to do to help our residents.
Kathleen Keresey has proven to be an effective leader. She is a fifth-generation resident and has good rapport with “locals” and newer residents alike. She has served for the past three years as a Select Board member, and this past year as Chair. Prior to that, she served three years on the Finance Committee and the Vision Committee.
During Ms. Keresey’s time on the board, she has spearheaded numerous grant efforts, including the Green Communities grant, the Shared Streets grant, and she oversaw the use of ARPA funds, which saved the town money, to name just a few.
Mr. Piasecki says, “I grow cannabis now.” That was a business and industry that not everybody in town wanted; it was very controversial, but it was possible because he got a “special permit” from the town. This left many scratching their heads over the logistics.
West Stockbridge has always been a wonderful town comprised of hard-working citizens, working artists and artisans, small business owners including both full and part-time residents. For these reasons, we fully support Kathleen Keresey to be reelected to the West Stockbridge Select Board on May 8.
Joel Hotchkiss
West Stockbridge
