The Town of Concord's Personnel Board has proposed the creation of a new position, the Election and Census Manager, to address the increasing demands of election management and census activities. This role aims to streamline operations within the town clerk's office, which has seen a significant rise in workload due to new state regulations and the growing complexity of election processes.

During the December 10, 2024, meeting, officials highlighted that the new position will not increase the total number of full-time employees but will involve a reallocation of existing staff. The Election and Census Manager will oversee mail-in voting, early voting, and the management of the January census, reflecting the year-round nature of election-related tasks. The position is proposed at a grade 8 pay level, equivalent to that of the assistant town clerk.

Kari Tari, the town clerk, explained that recent legislative changes, including the Vote by Mail Act and automatic voter registration, have significantly increased the volume of work. The new manager will help coordinate these efforts, ensuring compliance with regulations and improving efficiency in processing voter registrations and ballots.

In addition to the Election and Census Manager, the board discussed ongoing recruitment efforts for municipal positions, emphasizing the importance of candidates with relevant experience. The town has advertised openings through various professional organizations and platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed, aiming to attract qualified individuals who can contribute effectively during the busy budget season.

The Personnel Board's discussions reflect a proactive approach to managing the town's administrative needs, ensuring that Concord can effectively handle its growing responsibilities while maintaining high standards of service to its residents. As the town prepares for these changes, the focus remains on enhancing operational efficiency and responsiveness to community needs.