To the editor:
On Monday, May 14, Sheffield voters will have the opportunity to re-elect Rene Wood to the Sheffield Board of Selectmen. I am very excited about and looking forward to having Rene back on the board because of her prior experience not only as a member, but because of her experience in other elected and appointed positions in Sheffield, as well as her general leadership, capabilities and experience.
Experience — you bet! Rene served six years on the board of selectmen, 15 years on the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission, six years on the planning board, three years on the board of health, is in her fifth year as Sheffield’s Rest of River representative, her second year on the Five Town Cable Advisory Committee and is an alternate delegate to Berkshire Regional Planning Commission.
Energy — lots! In addition to her many positions in local governance, Rene has performed years of hands-on support for local institutions including the senior center, local churches and Fairview Hospital. She has helped raise tens of thousands of dollars through direct fundraising and donations of her well-known jams and baked goods to local organizations.
Results — plenty! Rene has brought considerable funds to the town of Sheffield and residents by spearheading numerous grants for zoning, housing rehabilitation and Sheffield building improvements like the new handicapped entrance for the Town Hall now under construction. Results like these are a measure of her roll-up-her-sleeves dedication; her fair and balanced open mind; willingness to listen; ability to learn from mistakes; and inclusive, respectful and courteous approach to all.
Electing Rene will strengthen Sheffield’s finances; personnel practices; effectiveness in working and lobbying local, state and national organizations; and will increase transparency and citizens’ involvement in local government.
Dennis Sears
Sheffield
The writer is married to Rene Wood.
