Rockland has changed enough over the past 20 years to make some long-time residents feel as though they do not recognize their own city, no longer belong, and miss lost places where they felt comfortable. Many new arrivals to Rockland search for ways to contribute, feel comfortable, participate, offer ideas, join committees, start businesses, but worry that they are rejected as newcomers that just don't understand Rockland or know how to fit in. This is quite a gap between people.

How might a bridge be built between these two populations?

Lisa Westkaemper is running for a City Council seat in the November 7 election. Lisa is a newcomer but is also no stranger to the Rockland community. Major successes for her in Rockland were the Edna St. Vincent Millay house restoration, and organizing the Millay Festival this summer. She respects Rockland's history, and quietly helps people come together.

Lisa brings extensive experience in civic governance, administration and budgeting. She researches thoroughly, listens carefully, and wants what is best for a united Rockland.
Planning for housing, businesses and infrastructure will be high on her list. Lisa knows how to bring people together to understand what matters most to both new and long-time Rocklanders.

I have known Lisa for over two years and have had many conversations with her about Rockland's future. As a Mainer, I see Lisa as a balanced addition to Rockland. Lisa has lived in other cities, but chose Rockland because she believes we are a vibrant community poised for growth. She has seen cities that have planned well for growth and others that did not listen to its citizens to manage growth that would fit the character of the place. We have an opportunity to vote for a person of substance, a real professional for a changing Rockland, one where we can all feel like we belong.
She has my vote.

Connie Hayes lives in Rockland