Letter to the editor: Kumar “unfazed in the face of unexpected challenges”

Having worked closely with Vineeta Kumar on the Town Meeting Member Association (TMMA) Executive Committee, I was so delighted when we sat over coffee, and she said she was running for Select Board.

Vineeta was a key member of the TMMA Executive Committee, initially elected as Treasurer and later elected Chair. In her role as Chair, she set the monthly agendas for Executive Committee meetings and worked closely with the town staff to prepare for both Special and Annual Town Meetings. During her tenure, Vineeta shepherded us through the early stages of the pandemic, when all Town Meeting processes had to transition to remote formats. Some of Vineeta’s accomplishments that I fondly recall are:

·        Adapting TMMA Information Sessions: Streamlined traditional TMMA information sessions into efficient question-and-clarification sessions, ensuring they were more respectful of attendees’ time while preserving the integrity and productivity of the discussions.

·        Nimble Decision Maker: After the sudden cancellation of the TMMA bus tour due to pandemic restrictions, she proactively organized virtual and in-person open houses, allowing members to safely view sites listed on the warrant while ensuring continued transparency and engagement.

·         Collaborative And Effective Team Player: Worked closely with the Town Staff to design and distribute surveys assessing Town Meeting Member preferences, contributing to the successful planning and execution of a virtual Town Meeting in response to pandemic challenges.

·         Pioneering DEI Training: Initiated and facilitated the first Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training session during the pandemic as part of the TMMA Connect program, demonstrating leadership and commitment to fostering inclusivity within the organization during a critical time.

Her problem-solving skills were clearly evident during the pandemic, where she tackled the challenge head-on and re-configured everything to get the job done. Equally as important, her well-organized, thoughtful, and respectful approach to every meeting and initiative did not go unnoticed. As a management consultant myself, I appreciate and value the skills Vineeta brings from her extensive stint in the financial sector—skills that will be an asset to the Select Board. 

Having already seen Vineeta distinguish herself through her commitment to Lexington, and with my complete trust in her, I encourage you to join me in supporting Vineeta Kumar for Select Board.