I have had the great privilege of chairing Laurie Loisel’s campaign for Ward 3 city councilor over the past eight months, and I cannot recommend her to my Ward 3 neighbors enough. Why? Laurie will collaborate. She understands that even when we disagree, collaboration is essential to moving this city forward and getting things done. She is deeply aware that we are each other’s neighbors, friends, families, and co-workers, and most of our disagreements live on the edges of the bigger issues that we all care about, public education, safe streets and sidewalks, and a vibrant downtown among the most important.
Laurie will be an independent thinker and treat city staff and her fellow elected officials with the respect they deserve. Laurie will listen. I have already seen this through the countless hours of door-knocking Laurie has done in tandem with her supporters, listening to what Ward 3 voters care about. She will continue conversations even after disagreement. She will represent all of Ward 3, not just those with whom her opinions are in lockstep.
Finally, Laurie will do the job. She will show up at City Council and subcommittee meetings. She will participate in them in a respectful, curious, and open way. She will make sure Ward 3 has a voice in every vote; she will not unnecessarily abstain or raise charter objections to slow the process. Ward 3 neighbors, please join me in voting for Laurie Loisel in the preliminary on Sept. 16!
Jennifer Dieringer
Northampton