This letter to the citizens of Windham is written in response to the many letters written by Councilor Kaile Warren since he began his quest to serve on the Windham Town Council. He asserts that only the three new councilors are properly governing the town. Let me assure you that not only are the three new councilors giving their best, but the four more experienced councilors are as well.

Just because all seven councilors don’t automatically embrace all the ideas brought forth, does not mean that they are resistant to change or that they are not interested in continuous improvement. It simply means there are differing opinions as to what is in the best interest of the citizens.

His writings have left the impression to me that he automatically assumes the worst and that everything is wrong and must be changed immediately or the town will collapse, much like the “Henny Penny” story of our childhood days. In my opinion, this way of thinking insults the hundreds of selectmen, councilors, employees, and residents who have led the town since its incorporation to the wonderful town it is today. Even Warren makes statements that he loves this town and enjoys living here. Well, it didn’t get this way by itself.

There were very thoughtful discussions and many heated debates by many well educated, knowledgeable, and well-intentioned citizens over the years. There will continue to be these same conversations in the future. The decisions were made in an effort to meet the needs of the citizens and to move the town in a forward, positive direction. “This ship,” as Warren calls it, doesn’t need to be turned around. It needs to continue to set its course forward while tweaking directions and weathering the storms as it goes. This council, as previous councils, does not lead this town on its own.

The information that the council uses to make decisions is provided by experienced and knowledgeable employees, the expertise of volunteer boards, the helpfulness of the town manager, and input from many interested citizens. The council would be wise to understand why previous councils made the policy decisions that they did and determine if these policies continue to meet the needs of the community today. Each council does not need to re-invent the wheel nor have change just for the sake of change. Ideas for change should be researched as to their need, value, cost and impact on the community.

It is my opinion that we don’t need leaders who pound their chest and pat themselves on the back every time they catch someone making a mistake. We need leaders who trust that people besides themselves are able, capable, and interested in working together and giving their best.

Elizabeth Wisecup

Windham Town Councilor