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Continuity, Dedication, and Commitment

In support of Republican candidates Sue Renner and Charles Havrda for Board of Selectmen (BOS), I thought it important to clarify the previous coverage after the Republican primary for first selectman. For the benefit of those not at the September Republican Town Committee (RTC) meeting, Selectman Charles Havrda clearly stated the request to step down from his BOS candidacy was met with an emphatic “No.” That request from primary winner Ken MacKenzie continues to be a source of division, but, thankfully, Charles Havrda’s unwavering commitment to continue his hard work on the BOS offers a true opportunity for unity. Teamwork, through fair and balanced exchange of ideas, has been the basis for important accomplishments over his long service on the board.

There were many missed opportunities for Ken MacKenzie to withdraw his request and bring the RTC and party together. Simply embracing the BOS slate would have been a significant unifying gesture— which didn’t happen. By contrast, I was struck by one letter in the Sept. 28 issue: “A Willingness to Listen” [by Lois Smith]. Those words speak volumes about a critical characteristic for true leadership.

Charles Havrda and Sue Renner (who also appealed for unity at the meeting) have the experience, drive, and desire to continue their service to our town. Sue has been a long-serving, dedicated member of the Board of Education, where she helped achieve meaningful, collective goals designed to provide a high quality educational environment for Guilford school children. Together, Charles and Sue represent a strong slate of BOS candidates having enviable assets with whom most first selectmen would be proud to work.

I’m hopeful that Guilford residents who admire the unique qualifications of continuity, dedication, and commitment will vote for Charles Havrda and Sue Renner on Nov. 7.

Patricia Keegan

Guilford