Ernest Jette is running for re-election as our Ward 5 Alderman. We’re very happy about this, because he has the background and character equal to the task, and he has served our ward well. He holds degrees in economics and law, and has devoted his life to public service: Captain in the US Army, director of both the Nashua Chamber of Commerce and Greater Nashua Mental Health Center, active in volunteering and church.

In his first term, Alderman Jette has helped implement much-needed improvements on West Hollis St., management of conservation lands, and served as liaison to the Nashua Police Department. He also understands the critical need we have in Nashua for affordable housing, and also the reality that funding for this comes from state and federal sources. He commits to continuing the process of readying our city for the time when such funds become available by making sure we have the right foundation in areas such as zoning and economic development planning.

Alderman Jette’s motto is “Respect and Reason,” and he walks the talk. He does his homework. He understands both the legal foundations and the economics of city business. We’ve watched him at work via video and Zoom, and are always impressed with the professional way he treats both issues and the other Board members. He respects his constituents, too, keeping us up to date with everything from public meetings about important issues to road construction to schedules for Free Fresh Produce. The communication goes both ways; he answers our questions promptly and thoroughly.

Finally, Mr. Jette always shows up. Unlike his opponent, he was at the League of Women Voters/Public Library candidate forum to state his priorities and answer our questions. This is the kind of leadership we need: respectful, reasonable, and accountable. We hope Ward 5 readers will join us in re-electing Ernest Jette as Ward 5 Alderman.