By Bethany Bray
Staff Writer
—
Selectmen expect to appoint a fifth member this month and interested citizens can apply for the seat vacated by Jerry Stabile Jr. starting tomorrow.
Citing the demands of his career, Stabile announced his intent to resign earlier this month, five months after being re-elected to a three-year term. His last day as a selectman was this Tuesday, Aug. 31, during which he participated in a closed-door session to negotiate Town Manager Buzz Stapczynski's contract.
Selectmen have chosen to appoint someone to Stabile's seat until a new selectman can be elected in March. The appointee will serve October through March; the selectman chosen in town elections will serve the remaining two years of Stabile's term.
At a meeting Tuesday, Aug. 31, selectmen agreed the person appointed must have prior experience on town boards, preferably as an elected official. The appointee will join the board just as the municipal budget season begins.
If the person is currently sitting on a town board or committee, he or she will be asked to step down before accepting joining the Board of Selectmen.
"We want someone that can fill in, take that fifth seat and be as effective as possible," said Selectman Alex Vispoli, who has replaced Stabile as chairman.
Selectman Brian Major emphasized he has "zero interest" in appointing someone who intends to run for the seat in March.
Vispoli agreed, but noted "you can't know if someone's going to change their mind (and run)."
Selectman Ted Teichert said whether the appointee intends to run is "not a huge factor for me."
TIMELINE: SEARCH FOR THE FIFTH SELECTMAN
Friday, Sept. 3: Applications to be appointed available at town manager's office and at andoverma.gov
Friday, Sept. 17: Applications due back to town manager's office by noon, either emailed to manager@andoverma.gov or hand delivered
Monday, Sept. 20: Selectmen publically discuss applicants, 7 p.m.
Monday, Sept. 27: Selectmen appoint fifth member, 7 p.m.
Visit andoverma.gov/selectmen for contact e-mails and meeting agendas. The town manager's office is located on the third-floor of town offices, 36 Bartlet St. Email manager@andoverma.gov or call 978-623-8225 for more information on the application process.
