To the editor:
I am running for re-election for the Select Board in West Stockbridge.
I had no intention of exchanging words with my opponent in the local press; however, I feel I must respond to last week’s public comments made by Mr. Piasecki in The Berkshire Edge.
In writing about his concerns about our town, Mr. Piasecki did the conversation a great disservice by trying to label issues and challenges common to any town in Berkshire County, or anywhere in the United States for that matter, as a “class war.” This is grievance politics at its worst, and I hope this obvious attempt to sow division for the sake of votes is recognized as such.
You would be more likely to see me taking action and responsibility rather than engaging in finger-pointing. As a volunteer public servant whose first term coincided with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, I did not have the luxury of blaming others for the challenges we faced. We had to act, and I continue to do so with special consideration for those most in need during what remains a difficult time.
We do have some challenges ahead of us, but as I have in my first term, I intend to confront these challenges with careful research and planning; fiscal responsibility; and, most importantly, a lot of listening to the people of this town. Our problems are not going to be solved with propaganda and incendiary rhetoric.
As your elected official, I will remain—as always—available, responsive, and positive to the needs of our community.
Please vote on Monday, May 8. The polls are open at the Town Hall from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Kathleen Keresey
West Stockbridge
