I thank the Sun Journal for the Sept. 15 editorial about Sumner’s selectmen and the town’s ongoing struggle to find balance in their issue of wind power.

Having grown up there, it is rather noticeable when I return to visit, how the influence of “those from away” has both a positive and negative effect on the town. As I read about how disrespectful townspeople are in various forums, as well as in their relationships with their fellow neighbors, I can’t help think that is not the Sumner that I grew up in.

Where has the ability to disagree and still be civil and appropriate to each other gone?

In light of the resignation of two very generous, wise and experienced gentlemen, who, with many others, have given much of themselves to the town over the years. They all have made it that place many others from “away” found it to be where they wanted to relocate. I think that the ones from “away” may wish to look to these longtime residents and perhaps find some common ground in the issue, and work together in finding a well-informed, non-fear-based solution.

Making accusations and disregarding the 69 years of commitment and dedication Glenn Hinckley and Mark Silber have offered to the well-being of the town of Sumner goes very much against the fabric of the town that I have known.

I think a well-deserved “thank you” would be in order, rather than the current results.

Jennifer Hinckley Waterman, Sabattus