To the Editor:

On June 5, Princeton Democrats will elect a slate of six Council members and a mayoral candidate to represent our party in a historic election in November. We need knowledgeable leaders to ensure that consolidation yields the promised savings while maintaining and/or enhancing our community’s quality of life; leaders respectful of disparate viewpoints; leaders who are skilled listeners; leaders willing to research the pros and cons of issues; leaders capable of collaborating with others to identify the best options and solutions to community concerns; leaders driven by advancing what is best for our community as a whole; leaders who embrace healthy debate. I know Jo Butler is such a leader.

During the two-year consolidation debate I was very vocal in my opposition to the municipal merger. I appeared at nearly all of the Commission meetings and every joint municipal meeting to raise questions and concerns. I can state unequivocally that Jo Butler listened to my concerns, answered my questions in a thoughtful manner and was respectful of our differing viewpoints.

Now during the “transition” to a united Princeton, I regularly attend task force meetings and selected subcommittee meetings. I am comforted that Jo Butler is in a position of leadership and decision-making, representing Borough Council on the Transition Task Force. She is serving on the Personnel, IT, Public Safety, and the Infrastructure and Operations subcommittees, working to make sure the promises and opportunities of consolidation come to fruition.

Jo Butler is a proven leader working on behalf of the Princeton community at-large. Her energy is boundless, her attention to detail unparalleled. She is frank, honest, an independent thinker who works well with others. She is a doer and a go-getter in her work on behalf of others.

Jo Butler is prepared on Day One to make myriad tough decisions that await the new government. With knowledge and insight, Jo is ready to begin a new government faced with the difficult task of making the transition from two municipalities to one a success for the future of Princeton.

We need a leader who is ready to unite Princeton on January 1, 2013. That is why I will be voting for Jo Butler. Please join me in supporting and voting for Jo Butler on June 5.

Kate Warren

Jefferson Road