ATHOL — Nomination papers are now available for the town’s upcoming annual election, which will be held in the spring.
Seats that are up for grabs this year include a one-year position as moderator; two three-year seats on the Selectboard; two three-year seats on the Athol-Royalston Regional School Committee from Athol; a seat on the same committee from Royalston; two three-year seats on the Library Trustees; one five-year term and one one-year term on the Housing Authority; a three-year term as Constable.
Incumbents up for re-election this year include Moderator Lawrence P. McLaughlin; Selectboard members Rebecca J. Bialecki and Holly A. Young; Lee E. Chauvette and Mitchell R. Grosky, members of the Athol-Royalston Regional School Committee from Athol; Nancy D. Melbourne, a member of the school committee from Royalston; Library Trusteers John R. Greene and Margaret L. Young; Edward C. Sawin, a member of the Housing Authority; and Constable Randy L. Mitchell.
In order to be on the ballot, candidates for town offices must collect a minimum of 40 signatures from registered voters. For seats on the school committee, 50 signatures must be collected.
A schedule of election-related dates is as follows: Tuesday, Feb. 18, is the last day to submit nomination papers to the Registrar of Voters. Monday, March 2, is the last day for Registrar of Voters to file nomination papers with the Town Clerk. Monday, March 2, is the last day for the Selectboard to submit ballot questions. Wednesday, March 4, is the last day to withdraw. Tuesday, March 17, is the last day to register to vote. Monday, March 30, is the last day to publish warrant. Monday, April 6, is the Annual Town Election; polls will open at 10 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. For more information, visit the town’s website at athol-ma.gov.