ERVING — Peter Sanders is the only candidate on the ballot for the Oct. 8 Selectboard election, meaning the race is uncontested unless someone campaigns as a write-in candidate.
The seat had been held by Scott Bastarache since 2016. Bastarache resigned in August, citing a lack of free time to commit to the Selectboard.
Sanders has lived in Erving since 2002, and is originally from Montague. He is the superintendent of the town Water Department — which supplies drinking water to about 260 residents — and the chief operator of the Wastewater Department. As such, Sanders oversees two wastewater plants in town and monitors pretreatment processes for one run by Erving Industries. He has also been on the town Conservation Commission for two years.
“I think the town runs very well and I’d like to help keep it going on that path,” Sanders said. “I like the town of Erving.”
Specifically, he said he wants to continue the town’s fiscal and environmental sustainability, and maintain existing accommodations for senior citizens and pursue the possibility of senior housing.
Sanders worked for the Erving Highway Department for four years before a position opened in the Wastewater Department. He began as an apprentice and eventually learned the drinking water trade, too.
Voters in October’s election will also decide on a new School Committee member. Mark Blatchley is the only candidate. The open position was on the ballot for Erving’s annual town election in May, but there were no candidates at the time.
Reach Max Marcus at mmarcus@recorder.com or 413-772-0261, ext. 261.