How to run for office in Southborough

If you’re reading this blog (and hooray that so many of you are!), you’re obviously interested in the myriad issues facing our town right now. But wouldn’t you like to do something more than just read about it? Wouldn’t you like to become a more active participant in the decisions that will shape the future of our town?

Well, how about running for an elected position? There are positions opening up on boards dealing with all the important issues in town: property taxes, health, schools, town development, housing, and more.

The town election will be held in May. If you’re interested in running, pick up nomination papers at the Town Clerk’s office in the Town House. You’ll need to collect signatures from 44 residents who are registered to vote.

The paperwork is due by March 23, but since signatures have to be certified, Assistant Town Clerk Dawn Michanowicz recommends getting the papers in a week in advance. That way if there are problems with any signatures, you’ll have time to correct them or collect new ones.

Here’s a list of open positions. All are 3-year terms unless otherwise noted.

• Moderator (1-year term)
• Board of Selectmen
• Board of Commissioners of Trust Funds
• Board of Assessors
• Board of Health
• Board of Trustees, Library — 2 positions
• School Committee — 2 positions
• Northborough-Southborough Regional School Committee — 2 positions
• Planning Board (5-year term)
• Southborough Housing Authority (5-year term)