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Residents voice concern as Selectboard explains appointing constables in Article 3
Summary
Article 3 would change Town Constables from elected to appointed positions; residents said appointment could safeguard qualifications while some worried it removes voters' choice. The Selectboard said appointment allows setting a clearer job description and hiring from outside town.
Richard Roderick asked for clarification on Article 3, saying he was apprehensive about "relinquishing voters’ electoral authority." Chair Susan Culp explained that if the position is appointed, it becomes subject to the Selectboard's job description and qualifications, including higher enforcement standards.
Town Treasurer Mary Collins said appointment would also allow hiring an out-of-town person for the role. Joanne O’Meara argued that choosing a Constable "should not be a popularity contest" and that the town should be able to expect enforcement qualifications from the office.
Tony O’Meara emphasized that residents had listed law enforcement as a primary concern in earlier listening sessions and said Article 3 is a step toward addressing that issue. No formal decision was made at the special meeting; the change would be decided by voters at Town Meeting if Article 3 passes.
