Our View: Now is the time to consider running for local boards

Talk about it

It is a difficult time of the year to think about civic duty, but that’s exactly what must happen this month if someone is thinking about running for a position on a local board in the spring election.

Despite the hectic schedule that surrounds Christmas, now is the time to be exploring the procedure for seeking office in the city of Hudson, village of North Hudson, School Board or various town boards.

Some positions require the circulation of nomination papers; others need only a declaration of candidacy. The spring election is April 7 (Feb. 17 primary if needed), but all necessary preliminary work, regardless of the governmental unit (except towns), must be completed by 5 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6.

It is too early to tell if incumbents in each of the positions will run again — some will, some may not. That, of course, should not discourage a citizen who is interested in seeking office. When voters are offered a choice, it brings more people to the polls and gives citizens options to consider. We pay tribute to all the people currently serving in local government and to those considering the possibility of running for office. The pay is low, criticism is often high and the responsibilities are huge. Those willing to serve are true public servants.

Positions open in the city of Hudson include Alderpersons Randy Morrissette II (District 1), Scot O’Malley (District 5) and Alan D. Burchill (District 6)

Positions open in North Hudson include the seat of Village President Larry Larsen, trustees Joseph Cothern, Colleen O’Brien-Berglund and Marc Zappa and Judge Ben Wopat.

Positions open on the Board of Education are those of Brian Bell, Tom Holland and Barbara Van Loenen.

Candidates on town boards are selected at town caucuses in January. Those dates will be determined at board meetings this month.

Up for election in the town of Hudson are Chair Jeff Johnson and board members Tim Foster (supervisor 2) and Gale Qualls (supervisor 4).

Up for election in the town of St. Joseph are Chair Theresa Johnson, board members Kevin Moelter (supervisor 2) and Rick Colbeth (supervisor 4).

Up for election in the town of Troy are Town Chair Ray Knapp, board members Gloria Wahrenbrock (supervisor 1) and Jan Cuccia (supervisor 3) and constables Ron Schock and Mel Hermansen.

Now is the time to put your plan into motion if you are considering becoming a public servant at the local level.

Tags: opinion, hudson, editorial, spring, election