If you are planning to run for the Selectboard in the Town of Northfield, I hope you will consider how you will approach this position where you have the responsibility for making policy decisions for all of the residents of our town. Have you considered how you might prepare yourself for making these decisions and do you know what resources are available to you to learn about your responsibilities?
An elected official must follow Massachusetts General Laws that are available online. The state provides training for newly elected officials that you should attend. There are Town of Northfield written policies and procedures which you should know are available. The town has bylaws. You should know about their availability.
You should learn about the responsibilities of other town officials and employees. It is especially important that you become familiar with the position description of the town administrator with whom you will be working closely.
In 2013, at the recommendation of the first Town Governance Study Committee, followed by votes at a Special Town Meeting held on Dec. 9, 2013, the town administrator position was created (upgraded from administrative assistant), with commensurate responsibilities and salary. This was intended to create a position with decision-making responsibility while leaving policy-making to the Selectboard. Understanding those votes will give you a working knowledge of that position and should be helpful in avoiding involvement in issues that are not your responsibility.
There is a Franklin County Selectboard Association open to all current and former Selectboard members. Attendance at these occasional meetings could prove very helpful in broadening your perspective through learning how our neighboring towns are dealing with issues of common concern.
To be one of our leaders, you need to think about what you will bring to the position. I consider it a serious responsibility and not just participating in “politics.”
Lois M. Stearns
Former Northfield Selectboard member