Registrars deny objection to Anthony Zarrella’s nomination papers

The Fitchburg Board of Registrars voted unanimously on Nov. 14, 2025 to deny an objection to nomination papers filed against Anthony Zarrella, a candidate for City Councilor at Large. Registrar Michael Hurley moved to deny the challenge; Registrar Joanna Bilotta seconded and the motion passed 3–0.

Attorney Provencher of the City Solicitor’s Office told the board the hearing focused on requirements under state election law: "for a Councilor at Large candidate, the nomination paper address must be within the City of Fitchburg." The objection, filed by resident Jacquelyn Wehtje, questioned whether Mr. Zarrella had updated his voter registration promptly after moving and whether his nomination paperwork therefore complied with the statute.

Jacquelyn Wehtje asked that City Clerk Joanna Bilotta recuse herself and presented documentation and a news article, arguing the nomination papers showed different addresses when they were taken out versus when they were returned. Mr. Zarrella responded that he had taken out nomination papers in February while residing at 33 Saint Paul Street, moved in June to 380 Wanoosnoc Road, received an occupancy permit in June, updated his address with the Registry of Motor Vehicles (which in turn updated his voter registration), and filed his nomination papers in July accompanied by an affidavit explaining the move.

Several local residents testified in support of Mr. Zarrella, and Andrew Van Hazinga noted that "Councilor at Large candidates can obtain signatures from voters anywhere in the city." After discussion among the registrars about signature rules and verification of records, the board voted to deny the objection.

The hearing closed at 9:16 a.m.; the meeting adjourned at 9:22 a.m. No further appeals or next steps were recorded in the meeting minutes.