I am writing to voice my support for Kathryn “Katie” Russell for first selectwoman in Deep River.

I sit on the Deep River Library Board with Katie and have watched her serve as a catalyst and an idea generator, directly applying ideas and skills from her business career as a marketing executive. She was the thought leader behind the board’s establishment of a mission statement, community market research, a strategic plan, identifying the opportunity to secure American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, and writing the actual funding request. The community market research led to a survey sent out to Deep River residents, where we learned about the needs of the community. As a direct result, we are now offering at the library many more programs for our adult population.

Katie also initiated the thinking and work to identify grant opportunities and completed the grant application for the 2023 CT Neighborhood Assistance Act for window repairs and renovations. Katie applies a rational decision framework to challenging issues and is not afraid to ask the tough questions. I would like to see her apply her extensive skills and experience to all the issues facing our town, which is why I will be voting for her for first selectwoman on Tuesday, Nov. 7, and I encourage you to do the same.

Alexa C. Jamieson

Deep River