Phew. I am so glad Charlotte Warren is running for Kennebec County commissioner. She has done so much for us as a mayor, state representative, and chair of the Criminal Justice Committee, and now is willing be a public servant again.

There has never been a time when we have needed experienced leaders to guide us through these difficult times, and at a time when our county commission has been allocated pandemic money. We need it to be put to good use — housing, mental health services, criminal justice reform — all of which have been hallmarks of Warren’s service so far.

And we need the commission to be transparent, inclusive, and seeking out citizen input — again, a hallmark of Warren’s style.

In Kennebec County we have the chance to do a really good thing for our communities by voting Charlotte Warren in the June 14 primary. I, for one, can’t wait to cast my vote for her.

Betsy Sweet

Hallowell