Marion candidates’ night promises to be an informative evening. The deadline has now passed for candidates to file their papers to run for Marion’s elected offices and town committees. While the Town Election is still over a month away on May 13, there is considerable activity this year. The Tri-Town League of Women Voters’ annual Candidates’ Night, scheduled for Thursday, April 28 at 7:00 pm in the Music Hall, will be your best opportunity to meet all the candidates for contested offices. This annual gathering will offer townspeople a chance to hear presentations that will include their views on major issues and allow for a question and answer period with the contestants.
There are going to be four contested races this year: Selectman; Planning Board; Board of Health; and Open Space Acquisition Commission. With the retirement of long-time Selectman Jon Henry, Dale Jones will face two newcomers to the ticket as Planning Board members Steve Gonsalves and Norm Hills are also trying for Henry’s seat. For one opening on the Board of Heath, incumbent Albin Johnson is trying for another reelection, while Jason Reynolds is entering the field as his challenger. Two positions are up for grabs this spring on the Planning Board with a field of five contenders. Jerry “Rico” Ferrari will attempt to retain his seat while Steve Kokkins, who lost his seat last year, is hoping to come back onto the Board. Jon Henry is eager to serve on the Planning Board for a change, along with newcomers Will Saltonstall and William DoCarmo. The final contested race is for two seats on the Open Space Acquisition Commission. Incumbents John Rockwell and Randy Parker will run for reelection, and Jerry “Rico” Ferrari is challenging them for a seat on the commission.
Four positions are unopposed: Assessor; Moderator; and both the Marion and Old Rochester Regional School Committees. Incumbent Brad Eames will seek a new three-year term as an Assessor. Jeffrey Dickerson has stepped up to make an unopposed run for Town Moderator. Christine Marcolini and Heather Burke will retain their positions on the Marion and ORR School Committees.
All contestants who are seeking positions in this year’s election are to be congratulated for their willingness to serve in town government. Marion voters are strongly encouraged to attend Candidates’ Night in the Music Hall to become informed about the views of the candidates.
Key dates to remember:
Candidates Night: April 28, 7:00 pm in the Music Hall
Town Meeting: May 9, 6:45 pm in the Sippican School
Town Election: May 13, 8:00 am to 8:00 pm at the VFW Hall