I am writing this letter to let the public know that we must continue to elect people who believe in putting Haines residents and our communities’ economy first and not their own personal issues.  

I believe that the current assembly is doing a good job at keeping the balance for the good of the people of Haines, although sometimes it is a struggle to keep common sense on the table with some assembly members.  

However, unfortunately, I believe that the planning commission is not doing the same. After I spoke at the planning commission’s meeting and the borough assembly, regarding the Haines cemetery issue, I realized that the planning commission was not thinking of Haines residents first.  It was clear to me that they had their own agenda and the atmosphere in the room gave a clear message to those speaking on behalf of the cemetery, “we already have our minds made up.”

 It was awkward, to say the least.  

Please keep this in mind when voting. My choices, for what it is worth: Gabe Thomas and Richard Clement for borough assembly. Kim Rosado and Nathanael Reams for planning commission. 

I believe that together they will continue building trust, listening to citizens and making decisions that put our community first.  Please vote because every vote does count.

Karen Hess