Are you ready to become more involved in your town?
Taking on an active role in your town's government may sound scary, and out of your league - but it's not! All Porter residents, who are registered to vote are eligible to run for elected positions. You don't have to be a politician, CEO, have special connections, or a PhD, and the process isn't as complicated as it may seem.
These positions are important. The people we elect are responsible to make sure that our town run smoothly and that the community is taken care of. If you have experience or skills and feel that you are qualified, and enough of your neighbors agree (you need a certain number of signatures to be placed on the ballot), you should consider taking on an elected position. Some positions are paid, some are not.
On December 17, 2018, the Porter, Maine Town Hall will have nomination papers available for the following positions
Selectman, Assessor, Overseer-of-the-Poor - 3 year term
Road Commissioner - 3 year term
Director of MSAD #55 (1 position) - 3 year term
Planning Board Member (2 positions) -3 year term
There are a few steps to follow to have your name placed on the ballot
Decide if you have what it takes as well as the desire to be an active, influential part of your town.
Visit the Town Hall to pick up nomination papers.
Collect the required number signatures to be nominated.
Turn in your signatures to Town Hall by the deadline (1/15/19 by 3:00 PM) and ta-da! You're on the ballot where your fellow townspeople will have the opportunity to vote for you, or your opponents.
Once elected, you'll be sworn in and on your way to making a difference in our community. Meetings are held regularly, and your input is important! Even if you don't run for an open seat, most meetings are open to the public, and input from residents is critical.
If you have ever found yourself saying "they really should...", then you may be a perfect candidate! Remember: "we" the townspeople are the "they".
If you have questions, stop in, call, or email your Town Hall.
By Cristina Forsyth
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