Editor:

Election of the States Attorney for Washington County is much more important than many people understand. It is a four year term, unusual in Vermont elections. The individual in that office sets the tone for police work and court outcomes to a degree that the average citizen cannot understand.

Tom Kelly got my vote in 2006. Upon the death of Terry Trono who was a highly popular States Attorney, Governor Douglas passed over Kelly, reached outside of Washington County and appointed Craig Nolan. I believed, like many others, that Kelly was treated unfairly and that Terry Trono, a man I liked and appreciated, would have supported Kelly for the position. Terry Trono’s wife, Linda, strongly and publicly supported Kelly’s candidacy, also a factor for me.

I have never regretted that vote.

That was “yesterday.” Today is a new day. Tom Kelly was the guy for yesterday; Scott Williams is the guy for today.

Over the past eight years, I have had significant ‘professional’ contact with each of these lawyers. Kelly represents the “old school” way of thinking, which in the court and justice system means “more of the same” in a system that many call – “dysfunctional.”

Scott Williams thinks differently. He listens with compassion and demonstrates a deep understanding of the connection between drug abuse, criminal activity; poverty and lack of opportunity.

Williams demonstrates sensitive compassion for victims in a way that can only benefit our community.

Tom Kelly listens in the “old school” way, evidence being foremost in his mind. Williams listens with a creative ear; true justice being most prominent in his mind.

Mr. Kelly has been a loyal public servant for decades and should be applauded for his efforts. Scott Williams will set a new and different tone. One that is much needed.

Fred Woogmaster

Plainfield