Bill and Laura Johnson were two of the first people Bruce and I met when we moved to Harvard a little over nine years ago. They were most welcoming and we soon learned that they were the glue that brought the neighborhood together on Warren Ave. New to town, my husband, Bruce, joined the Pond Committee and soon after recruited Bill to join as well. Soon after they joined the possibility arose of applying for a federal grant to eradicate the pond weeds. Bill, not having ever written a federal grant, stepped right in to learn the ropes and ultimately to take the helm of the project after the grant was won.
Not being a member of the committee, but being married to one, I watched and listened to the exchanges as they built bridges and brought together folks who had been at odds for years. Then I watched them as they sought to bring attention to our structural deficit at FIAT. In each instance, Bill’s focus has been collaborative, inclusive, respectful and in the end designed to bring about results.
From my conversations with Bill, I have observed the following. He is dedicated to the cause he signs up for; an excellent listener; a fast learner; smart and analytical; open to others’ ideas; has the rare ability to bring people together to work together; nonjudgmental; charismatic; fair; humble, and giving of his time and himself. Bill and I might not agree on an issue, but he listens to your point of view and if he lets you down, it’s a soft landing.
I respect Bill’s intelligence and good nature and know he will do much to move the issues forward. No one will feel left out and everyone will understand why he makes the decision he does. After the last few years, this is just what we need. I hope all get a chance to meet Bill and vote for him for selectman.
Ellen Sachs Leicher
Warren Ave.
