We’ve known Laurie Loisel for over 30 years as a friend and neighbor, and we want to highlight four qualities that we think make her the best choice for Ward 3 city councilor.
Laurie listens. This has been noted before, but it’s worth repeating. Laurie has the genuine, deep curiosity of an investigative reporter. She doesn’t approach an issue with predetermined opinions or a particular interest group’s orthodoxy. She seeks out different perspectives, she wants to know all sides of an issue, and she challenges assumptions.
Laurie cares. She is guided by the sincere interest she takes in others, particularly those whose perspective or voice may be sidelined by the mainstream. When she’s listening to you (see above), you know it. You feel heard and seen.
Laurie thinks for herself. She seeks out a range of perspectives so she can understand the impact of issues on different people, and she comes to her own conclusions. She will listen to every advocacy group, but she won’t be owned by any of them. She will be a thoughtful, independent voice on City Council, representing the people in Ward 3 who elect her.
Laurie takes action. Although she is a careful thinker and a skilled communicator, she is not satisfied with just talk. When she arrives at a decision, she takes the next step. She works to get things done.
Whether we’ll agree with Laurie on every issue that comes before her as a city councilor or not, we have no question of her integrity and her decision-making process. She will do her homework. She will work to understand the needs and perspectives of all her constituents. And she will respectfully collaborate with her colleagues to take necessary action. We will be proud to have Laurie Loisel as our Ward 3 city councilor.
Matt and Deb Haas
Northampton