I look forward to the day — I trust it will be soon — when I can proudly address Ben Chin as “Mr. Mayor.” Many have already written letters of support focused upon his particular policies. I wish to write about another set of qualifications, altogether.

For more than a decade Chin has been working tirelessly to better the lives and livelihoods of Lewiston’s residents. He well knows his way around the Augusta State House, and he will use that earned savvy to help residents locally. He has learned about policy and planning; he has gained knowledge about budgets and bottom lines.

But most important of all — besides his basic smarts and his accrued policy experience — he has heart. He has empathy and warmth and respects people from all walks of life.

Ben Chin will work to fully balance Lewiston in this time of need.

Elizabeth Anne Eames, Lewiston