I am writing this letter to encourage Shepherdstown residents to support Jim Auxer for another term as mayor of Shepherdstown. My husband and I had the pleasure of meeting Mayor Auxer fairly soon after we moved to Shepherdstown and he quickly became a friend. I see Shepherdstown as my home, even though I don’t live within the town limits. We wish we were able to vote in the Shepherdstown election.

Experience matters and Jim Auxer has been the mayor for 20 years, which included the recent transition to having a full-time town manager. He recognizes the importance of Shepherd University to the town and works closely with university leadership to maintain a mutually beneficial relationship between Shepherd and the Corporation of Shepherdstown. He is one of the most honest people I know and he is genuine in his interest and respect for the historic town of Shepherdstown. He shows up everywhere. If you are in Shepherdstown, you will likely run into him going into Town Hall or walking from a community meeting. I believe he has only missed one council meeting in 20 years. He listens to everyone and wants to find solutions and not create division. He is always willing to hear the thoughts and ideas that come from people on the street, and returns emails and phone calls in a timely manner. He serves with integrity and transparency and without a hidden agenda. I recently took the time to go to a town meeting and came away from it even more impressed. His smile and love for Shepherdstown and Shepherd University is contagious.

He recognizes that there are many challenges. But he is prepared to work with the Town Council and the town employees and various boards to meet those challenges. Please vote on June 4 to re-elect Jim Auxer and consider telling your friends who live in Shepherdstown to vote for him as well. He cares. He follows up. He is a very dedicated public servant. He’s just right for what Shepherdstown needs.

Beth Batdorf, of Shepherdstown