WASI’s working hard

To the editor:

I am writing in response to a letter headlined “Woodruff has her vote” published in the Sept. 16, 2011, edition of the Mat-Su Frontiersman. All opinions are my own and I do not speak on behalf of the Wasilla Area Seniors Inc. Board of Directors.

While I respect every individual’s right to their own political opinion, this letter goes beyond the pale in her effort to make mayoral candidate Dianne Woodruff look good in the eyes of the voter.

Yes, the writer is correct in stating that Woodruff got involved with a small group of WASI members who were unhappy with the previous executive director. The writer is also correct in stating that Woodruff took exception with some past WASI financial records.

Now you need to hear the rest of the story before making assumptions or passing judgment.

Woodruff did not “negotiate” to obtain WASI financial records. Woodruff did make demands of WASI in obtaining financial records outside the scope of the grant request submitted to the city of Wasilla. Due to the negative atmosphere encouraged by council member Woodruff, WASI determined it would be in the best interest of its members to withdraw the grant request.

Woodruff did become a member of WASI and attended several WASI membership/board meetings to point out the many “errors” in the WASI management she deemed in need of correction. Woodruff and this small group seemed never to be satisfied with whatever information was provided and continued to find fault. Not once did she recognize the staff members for their hard work in attempting to respond to her demands. Not once has she recognized the positive steps taken by the WASI staff and board.

Woodruff attended meetings and remained vocal until the former executive director was released. I do not recall seeing her at any meeting since that time.

At the Wasilla mayoral candidate forum held at the WASI center Thursday, Woodruff was asked how she would support WASI in the future. Her response was to discuss the past problems she had with WASI and how those past concerns would impact her future relationship with WASI.

I must also take exception to the letter writer’s implication that WASI meetings are closed and people cannot be heard. Meetings, including work sessions, are open. All attendees are given an opportunity to speak at meetings. Regardless of what is done in attempts to satisfy these individuals, a few will continue to find, or imply, fault. It is somewhat disheartening when individuals will not put the past to rest, but that negativity will not stand in the way of the organization moving forward.

WASI board and staff work together to quickly resolve issues brought to their attention. WASI members have voiced their support of the current WASI staff and board; they want the past to be put to rest and they are looking forward to a positive future. If you happen to be at the center, please let the wonderful staff members know you appreciate all their hard work.

I urge the residents of the Valley to join me in looking to the future and to support the positive efforts of the WASI staff and board in making the WASI the premier senior services’ provider in the great state of Alaska.

K. Darlene Langill

Wasilla