To the editor:

What are the criteria we need to look for in a candidate?

•  Experience — The issues a Board of Health candidate faces are often complex and therefore require someone who has the knowledge and skills developed in her career that can be applied to the work of the board. 

•  Interpersonal skills — Active listening is a great skill. Civility must be the foundation for any discussion.

•  Goal setting – Candidates must be clear what their goals are.

•  Balanced agenda — Officials should serve the town at large.Compromise should not be viewed as weakness but rather as an integral part of the process.

• Analytical skills — Many decisions have long-term effects.  We need people who can understand the unintended consequences of their decisions.

Using these five criteria, we strongly support the candidacy of Donna Amaral for Board of Health.  Please vote on April 14th for Donna Amaral.  Your vote = your voice.     

Norm and Irene Buck

Jane Loos

Frank McDonough and Dale Weber

Betty Slade

Westport