In 2008, I was invited to join the Deerfield Historical Commission. I understood history, possessed good research skills, had organizational acumen to get things done — but I had never worked in town government.
The experience was eye-opening. First, was the time commitment. Two monthly meetings were inadequate to develop and execute meaningful projects, do research, network with other town historical commissions, talk with town officials about needs and problems and find funding.
Second, was the learning curve. Commission members were volunteers. Some worked in cucumber fields in their youth and attended dances in the pavilion at the base of Mount Sugarloaf. Others only knew Deerfield after the construction of Interstate 91 relieved the town of heavy traffic. Differing perspectives helped, but commission work was slowed immeasurably by our inexperience with state and local laws, resources to inform our work, grant opportunities, bidding processes and so much more.
Third, was the complexity of working on behalf of an entire community, not just the few who spoke the loudest. Competing interests pervade at all levels of government. Patience and diplomacy must prevail. Leaders must do thorough homework and be fair.
Experienced town leaders with such integrity are crucial, and Carolyn Ness is one of the best. She possesses clarity of knowledge and action that moves Deerfield forward. She stands for fiscal responsibility, healthy schools and businesses and emergency preparedness. She finds funding for projects and collaborates with regional groups for our town’s benefit.
I have found her caring and responsive to citizens with concerns. Unlike me in 2008, Ness knows all that it takes to serve our community well.
She has vision, expertise and commitment. She deserves our votes on May 7.
Edie Lipp
South Deerfield