Selectmen approve sending town‑clerk charter amendment (elected → appointed) to voters

WELLS, Maine — The Board of Selectmen voted Tuesday to place a charter amendment on the Nov. 4, 2025 special election ballot that would change the position of town clerk from an elected office to an appointed position.

Town staff presented background: the question has appeared on past ballots and was previously approved by a majority but failed to meet a turnout threshold in a prior election. The current town clerk was appointed in 2023 after a resignation, and staff and some board members said the appointment produced a smooth transition and professional administration of elections and records.

Selectmen discussed optics and public concerns — several members said they understood citizens’ concerns about removing an elective office but also emphasized the increasing complexity of the town‑clerk role. The chief argument for appointing the clerk was the need for experience and specialized knowledge to run elections, maintain records and manage legal responsibilities.

After discussion, the board voted to send the charter amendment, as drafted, to warrant certification and the Nov. 4 ballot (motion carried 5–0).

Why it matters: Changing the town clerk from elected to appointed shifts recruitment and oversight to the town manager/administration and can influence continuity and managerial control of election administration. The change requires voter approval and met the board’s threshold to be placed on the special‑election ballot.

Next steps: Staff will finalize the certified warrant language for the Nov. 4 secret‑ballot referendum.