by Frank Schroth

As of last night three residents had pulled nomination papers for the open Planning Board seat. Bernie Lynch has declined to run for re-election. Of the three, Bryan Furze, Michael Hale and John Sheldon, only Mr. Furze has returned the papers to town hall. Candidates for town wide office need to collect 50 signatures, confirmed the Town Clerk’s office, in order to appear on the ballot. Candidates have until March 11th to turn in the required papers.

Three candidates have turned in their nomination papers. In addition to Mr. Furze, the other two are Tom Hurley who is running for re-election to the Board of Selectmen and Jim McAuliffie who is running for re-election for Treasurer.

In addition to the Planning Board, the Library Board of Trustees and Board of Health may see contested seats. Currently 4 candidates have taken out papers for 3 open seats on the Library Board of Trustees. Incumbents Kris Hodlin and Frank Schroth and newcomers Sheryl Fleitman and Ed Duffy. Mr. Duffy currently sits on the Planning Board. The Board of Health has two seats open; one for a 3 year term and one for a 1 year term. There is potentially one candidate for the 3 year term, current chair Roxanne Musto and two candidates for the 1 year term. Cindy Christiansen and Laura Richards. Ms. Richards is currently serving on the board, however, according to the Town Clerk, she is not considered an incumbent as she was appointed to the position when Tim Lowney stepped off.

Another resident, Leemichael McLean, has taken out nomination papers for School Committee.

The Town Clerk is now posting election updates. You can find them here.

Here is a summary of the town meeting election current as of end of day yesterday, 2/18. Full details can be found at the Town Clerk link above.