I applied for the vacated Precinct 7 city councilor seat in early 2024 with a goal of rising above the pitfalls (and pratfalls) of Greenfield politics by not repeating the mistakes of others.
I made a family commitment to only complete the term and that gave me the freedom to be an independent operator. In my cover letter to the City Council, I wrote about not having to play politics or have an agenda as an interim councilor. Instead, I hoped to listen to, connect with, and represent the community to achieve common goals while maintaining an ethical moral code learned from my Naval service.
Now as my time on council comes to an end at the end of the month, I reflect back on an exciting and fulfilling adventure, combined with a few unfortunate missteps, and a frustrating realization that politics is a blood sport.
Despite the negatives, I enjoyed the experience of getting to know city employees, elected officials and volunteer board, commission and committee members, as well as people in the community. I witnessed how government works (and doesn’t work), served with — and learned from — dedicated fellow councilors, and worked with involved citizens with the betterment of Greenfield in mind.
I strived to avoid politics, to meet people where they were at, listen to all sides of an argument/debate/issue, and make the best decision possible for all concerned — and for the good of the city. I embraced trying to make a positive difference building relationships while staying as neutral as I could making informed votes as an honest broker and a fair representative for the community.
Although my original Pollyanna outlook has been soured, I leave the council with no regrets. I met some amazing people, offered my perspective and insight, attended some wonderful community events, and managed to help a few people along the way. That’s what service is supposed to be about.
But I did upset and disappoint people with a comment or a vote, and I was bruised by the criticism, personal attacks, and tough politics that comes with service, especially the cruelty of social media where opinion and assumption become fact with no responsibility for insults and falsehoods. However, I was humbled when an individual I publicly took to task in an ill-advised moment of frustration at a council meeting was the one person who showed graciousness and forgiveness in her response: Roxann Wedegartner. Others weren’t so kind or tolerant.
Service matters and trying to make a difference is important, even when you fail.
Thanks to all those who made it possible (especially my wife Susan!), and to all those who offered their support and constructive feedback. I invite others to serve when the opportunity arises. The rewards far outweigh the frustrations. To Kate Broughton and the P-7 Neighborhood Network — thanks for the opportunity to try to do it right.
Best of luck to my successor Precinct 7 Councilor-elect Sarah Bolduc and the rest of the City Council as they continue their work on behalf of the city.
Be sure to thank city employees, officials, and volunteers whenever you have the chance. They’ve earned such recognition and gratitude.
Wid Perry is Greenfield’s outgoing Precinct 7 city councilor.