Sherry Dutzy, Nashua Fire Commission Candidate

Sherry Dutzy

Age (as of Election Day)

74

Position Sought

Fire Commission 2-year office

Party Affiliation

Democrat

Family

Husband, Jack Three cats, Nikki, Tyler and Brady, whom we adore.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

Masters in Social Work, Boston University MBA, Northeastern

Occupation

Business development in the technology field 30 years

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

State Representative Ward 3 Nashua, Hillsborough 30

Campaign website

None

Why are you seeking elective office?

I am running to add diversity to the Fire Commission. For far too long these boards have received little attention and have become arthritic with no new blood adding fresh ideas and a new way of looking at things. I have a broad business and social work background and believe I can add a different viewpoint.

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

I am not running for this position because there is a problem. The Commission recently negotiated a new contract with the Firefighters' Union and I don't foresee the need to build a new fire station within this 2-year term, so most of the issues I expect will be administrative and personnel related. There is a need to improve the minutes of the meetings. The minutes now are simply a record of votes with no discussion noted. That is unacceptable.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I offer a unique blend of soft skills (my social work training/experience) and hard skills( my MBA and extensive and diverse business background). I have traveled extensively within the US and internationally for business which is an invaluable education. I think outside the box and am skilled in team-building and mentoring. Leadership involves creating a vision for the organization as well as doing one's homework regarding the day-to-day problems/issues. With my training and experience in business development, I can provide both.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)

It is not a matter that the current board has failed the community. I just think it is time to get more people in these positions who can offer a fresh perspective. Too often these boards become inbred because no one from outside their community runs. I'm running to change that.

How do you think local officials performed in responding to the coronavirus? What if anything would you have done differently?

I think our local government responded correctly to the coronavirus pandemic.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

I think I have pretty much said everything.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

As current Chair of the Nashua Conservation Commission, I have proactively sought out nominees with a background or interest in conservation. I started a Friends of the NCC to assist in project workdays. Stewardship plans are in place for our conservation areas and I have put processes in place for maintenance so information can be compiled and used for reference rather than residing in the head of one person which was how it was done in the past. We are in the process of creating more events for the public, developing a website and FaceBook page all in an effort to educate Nashuans to what we have to offer.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Have faith in serendipity

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I am proactive. I listen. I try to be respectful of different ideas. I try to make a difference.