The kick-off to Southborough’s election season begins today, with nomination papers now available in the Town Clerk’s office. There are a number of elected positions up for grabs this year, both high profile ones and not. If you’ve been thinking about getting involved in how our town is run, one of these positions might just be for you. Here’s how to throw your hat in the ring.
The first step is to stop by the Town Clerk’s office in the Town House sometime between now and March 22 to pick up the paperwork. Then find 44 of your fellow residents (registered voters only) to sign your nomination papers, and return them to the Town Clerk by March 25. That’s it. Easy!
Here’s a list of the positions that will be on the ballot this year. All are 3-year terms unless otherwise noted. To see who currently holds each position, visit this page on the town website. Town elections are on May 13.
- Town Moderator (1-year term)
- Board of Selectmen
- Board of Assessors
- Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds
- Board of Health
- Board of Trustees Southborough Library – 2 positions available
- Northborough-Southborough RegionalSchool District Committee
- Planning Board
- Southborough K-8 School Committee
- Southborough Housing Authority (5-year term)
If running for an elected position isn’t your thing, there are a number of appointed positions available where you can still have an impact. See a list of committee vacancies here.
I am new to town and would like to be a selectman. Cam someone direct me to how I can find out what the requirements are?
I believe the only requirement is that you are a registered voter in Southborough.
The process is simple:
1. I believe you need to be a registered voter.
2. You need to go to Town Hall and get a petition from the Town Clerk.
3. You need to gather about 50 signatures (the clerks office can tell you the exact number) of registered voters. The best way to do this is to spend a morning at the transfer station. Get about 10%-15% more than the minimum in case some are not really registered.
4. Turn in the petition before the closing date (some time in March I believe) to the Town Clerk.
5. If the signatures check out (they will check) you are on the ballot.
6. If you want to spend any money there are some forms you will need to file. The Clerks office has them.
Be prepared for the town to find out once you “pull papers” it is a matter of public record and there is always a little excitement if there is a contested race.