EDITOR:

I am writing this letter as an endorsement of incumbent candidate Theresa Nelson as Delta County Commissioner for District 3. The recent redistricting in Delta County has led to a situation where there are now two incumbent candidates opposing each other for this position. It would be a shame to lose such a beneficial member of the county commission under these circumstances.

I have known Theresa Nelson personally for well over 40 years. I can attest to the fact that she is a person of great integrity and high moral character. In addition to being very trustworthy and honest, she is a truly caring, empathetic individual who comes to the commission with no hidden agendas but simply a desire to serve others and do what is best for Delta County. She is the true definition of a servant leader.

In her time as a county commissioner, Theresa has shown the ability to listen attentively, consider carefully, and make thoughtful decisions that provide the most benefit to her constituency. In these days of often divisive politics, Theresa has consistently been able to express opinions, rationalize decision-making, and challenge opposing viewpoints while maintaining a sense of decorum and courtesy toward others.

Theresa has shown her dedication to her role by going above and beyond the expectations of her duties as a commissioner. She regularly attends multiple other board meetings and city council meetings to keep apprised of all the issues at hand. She makes sure that she has all the necessary information to make informed decisions — not ones based on personal opinions or hearsay.

Theresa worked for over 30 years as the director of the RSVP program through Community Action Agency. Her colleagues will attest that she had an excellent rapport with state officials in the funding and monitoring agencies with which she interacted. In addition, she had a remarkable ability to work within a very limited budget without sacrificing the quality of the program.

Let’s all come together in support of a candidate who puts her constituency first and demonstrates the qualities we most wish to see in our County Commissioners. Please consider casting your vote for Theresa Nelson as District 3 commissioner.

Shirley Gollach

Retired Bay College Instructor

Escanaba