Letter: Reelect Select Board Member Janie Dretler

I am writing in support of Janie Dretler’s reelection to the Sudbury Select Board. As a member of the Conservation Commission, my interaction with Janie has increased significantly with the many projects presented to the town during her tenure. She asks questions pertaining to the Wetlands Protection Act and the local Bylaw. The questions Janie poses, and the observations she makes, are always thoughtful, researched in advance, and make clear her enlightened compassion for Sudbury and its residents.

I learned a great deal about Janie’s commitment to Sudbury during these specific (and many other) conversations, and her capacity to listen. A well-informed person is one who takes the time to communicate with people outside a “safe” zone. By that I mean engaging others whose ideas and perceptions are different from your own. It dawned on me that Janie not only listens, she also creates a plan to address others’ concerns. It is one thing to walk away from a meeting feeling good. However, it is what happens when you leave the room that means it was an effective meeting – Janie follows up and takes action.

Janie is always well prepared. She researches topics and projects that impact the town and that will often have long-term value to residents. Examples include open space, recreation, and conservation as well as infrastructure, safety, and accessibility. Further, Janie has focused on issues addressing diversity, equity, and inclusion, environmental protection, and zoning.

Specifics include her support of the BFRT, CSX acquisition, Broads Acres acquisition, Solar Energy Bylaw, Fairbank Community Center, Polystyrene Reduction Bylaw, and a Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan. These are but a few of the issues that the Select Board must research, while seeking input from the town’s citizens. Their responsibilities are significant and time consuming and perhaps at times under appreciated.

I believe Janie Dretler has represented Sudbury residents in a transparent, objective reflective, and pragmatic way. She is a solid, yet humble leader, willing to act, while listening intently to the community’s voice. Please cast your vote to reelect Janie Dretler to the Sudbury Select Board. I have no doubt she will continue to work diligently and tirelessly on behalf of our town.

Dave Henkels