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Woodstock honors Kenneth Chapman for 50 years as town moderator; statewide officials attend
Summary
Town leaders and state officials recognized Kenneth Chapman’s five decades of service as Woodstock’s town moderator at the March 11 meeting; the governor and secretary of state read proclamations and letters of appreciation.
Kenneth Chapman, who has served as Woodstock’s town moderator since 1975, was formally recognized at the March 11 town meeting for 50 years of public service, with proclamations, letters and remarks read by state and local officials.
The gathering included remarks and formal commendations delivered on behalf of the governor, the New Hampshire Secretary of State, county commissioners and members of the state legislature. Several officials read prepared proclamations and letters thanking Chapman for his long service in running fair and orderly town meetings and for civic contributions beyond the moderator’s role.
Why it matters
Town moderators manage democratic processes at the local level; five decades in one elected role is uncommon and the tributes emphasized Chapman’s contribution to maintaining open elections, civic participation and continuity in town government.
What was said and presented
- Governor Kelly Ahab (as identified in the transcript) read a commendation recognizing Chapman’s 50 years of service and described his tenure as “a testament to his commitment, leadership, and the trust placed in him by his fellow citizens.”
- Secretary of State David Scanlon praised the town meeting process and highlighted Chapman’s long service, noting his role in testing election technology and his steady leadership across many election cycles.
- Letters and resolutions from U.S. Senators (read into the record) and from the New Hampshire Senate and House were presented; the transcript records that letters from U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan and Jeanne Shaheen were read aloud and that the New Hampshire Senate issued a resolution of congratulations.
- Local officials including Grafton County commissioners and the Select Board presented a proclamation, a plaque and a gavel honoring Chapman; the transcript records the Select Board’s motion to present these items and Chapman accepting thanks from the floor.
Chapman’s remarks
Town Moderator Kenneth Chapman spoke briefly about his time in Woodstock, described how he first came to New Hampshire in 1969, and reflected on public service and community. He noted the presence of family and longtime colleagues, and reminded attendees that town meeting business would continue and that some polls remained open for articles requiring an extended voting period.
Ending
The recognition concluded before the meeting resumed regular warrant-article business; the moderator resumed the articles and announced votes after the presentation. The transcript records multiple formal commendations and the presentation of a plaque and gavel in Chapman’s honor.
