To the editor:
I am writing this in appreciation of another contributor’s letter in yesterday’s Berkshire Eagle. Don Chabon, current chairperson of the Stockbridge BOS, shared his thoughts on the upcoming election in Stockbridge, and offered an overview of events in that town that are well worth considering.
My wife and I recently moved to Lee. We lived in Stockbridge for nearly 18 years as a part of my employment. It became much more than that. We are delighted to be in Lee, a wonderful town where we lived many years ago. My wife grew up here, we found a great home, and are near to family and many dear friends.
This does not in any way diminish the great affection and respect I have for Stockbridge and all my friends and neighbors there. I was pleased and grateful to have the opportunity to participate in the workings of a small New England town where many can only dream of residing. I was in involved in the town’s affairs, served on the ZBA, moderated (as a stand in) a town meeting, and enjoyed the banter and exchange of ideas at the local coffee shop and around many kitchen tables. Local politics is a topic that many in Stockbridge take very seriously and hold dear.
There are always naysayers. Critics with personal agendas who see things only their way. They deal in personal attacks, innuendo, conspiracies (large and small), and of course, demeaning sarcasm. They are often short on facts, logic, and reason.
Thank you, Mr. Chabon, for reminding us of the facts. Much has been accomplished in the past few years. It hasn’t been easy. There has been conflict. There has been progress. There have been numerable successes. And, the process that makes it all work is alive and well in Stockbridge. The voters are knowledgeable. They know exactly what they are doing. There are sometimes mistakes, but more often than not, it works. Yours is an involved citizenry with sometimes broadly varying opinions. These are the people that run Stockbridge. In my experience, the vast majority put Stockbridge first.
Mr. Chabon, you’re coming from the right place. We have not always agreed, and that is evidence of a healthy, positive, invigorated climate in the town. I hope you have the opportunity to keep up the good work.
Robert H. Jones Jr.
150 Greylock St.
Lee, MA 01238
