To the Editor:

Open Letter to the North Adams City Council:

As a North Adams resident, I am writing in full support of Virginia Riehl for the replacement City Council seat on Nov. 10. While I understand the stipulation that things may change between an election and the need to replace a sitting member, there has not been a disqualifying event that should allow the City Council to override the will of the citizens of North Adams.

Riehl had the most votes and was 10th in line to be seated in the most recent election. If Alexa MacDonald had decided not to run, anticipating her move, Riehl would be a current council member. If a new candidate is interested in applying for the job, they should run in the next election so North Adams residents can play a role in the decision. I voted for Riehl in the last election, and the fact that she has not faltered in showing up for North Adams between the election results and the present opening is a testament to her dedication to our city.

Respectfully,

Stacey Dreher
North Adams, Mass.