Letters

Certain words are floating around North Haven’s imminent election that I find curious: “independent,” “fiscal watchdog,” “lack of diversity.”

There is a difference between diversity and healthy debate on a village board, and rousing tensions or disruptions. That is why I am voting for incumbent Peter Boody and newcomer Max Rohn in North Haven’s Board of Trustees election.

I’ve been attending the Board of Trustees meetings for years. The addition of Peter Boody to the board struck a perfect balance to the inherent mechanics of Mayor Chris Fiore, Deputy Mayor Claas Abraham, and longtime devoted Trustee Dianne Skilbred.

Peter has a precise and deliberate manner, as he emphatically listens and circumspectly relays his thoughts. I can sense his sincerity, and I can see his genuine respect for his colleagues. He is a free thinker who speaks with no airs. Educated and informed, with an aura of humanity, he will always be a cherished newsman on the East End.

I served on a North Haven committee with Max Rohn. The multifaceted array of questions he asked was refreshing. He assessed from all angles and aspects, thought outside the box, and offered practical, creative solutions. At the helm of Wölffer Estates, he has expanded a Hamptons icon into an international entity. And he has done it in a sensitive and deeply communal fashion. Raising a young family, his paramount concern is preserving North Haven while making it safe and accessible to all. He wholeheartedly embraces the diversity of North Haven residents. Adding him to the board brings no “lack of diversity.”

From enhancing cell service to safeguarding this exquisitely unique village we all so luckily call home, both Peter and Max are diligent, yet proactive. They are die-hard environmental stewards with no contradictions. They are adamant about controlling ticks and deer. They impart wisdom, common sense and skill.

Watching the work sessions is where an outsider really gets to observe the inner workings of the North Haven Board of Trustees. Five people comprise the board. All five are “independent” voters. All five demonstrate financial responsibility. There is no particular “fiscal watchdog.” They all analyze and debate in the interests of North Haven and its residents.

With Peter Boody and Max Rohn on the board, foundational values would be consistent. Agendas would be transparent. The efficiency of the North Haven administration would improve. As a team, the board will unfurl the challenges ahead with calm, wise, insightful planning. This does not make for a homogeneous government. It makes for a civil one. The best teamwork in which we can all hope.

Please join me in moving North Haven forward peacefully and productively by voting for Peter Boody and Max Rohn on June 17.

Camille Petrillo

North Haven