Five Things You Missed at the Selectmen's Meeting

1. Seventy Town Meeting Member seats are up for grabs this year, but currently only 45 residents have taken out nomination papers. Twenty-five more nominations are needed before Tuesday's application deadline. Those who are interested can pick up nomination papers at 8 a.m. at Town Hall and must be returned by 5 p.m. Only ten signatures are needed from the nominee's precinct. So far, only precinct five has enough members. To take out papers, you must be a registered voter and pick up the papers yourself, although they may be returned by anyone.

2. According to Town Administrator Martha White, there are still at least three spots left for runners to compete in the  to raise money for the Michael Carter Lisnow Respite Center in Hopkinton and the . The original deadline was Feb. 4, but because spots are still open to compete, the deadline has been extended on a first come, first serve basis. To apply, submit a letter of interest to the Town Administrator's office. For more information 

3. Nicholas Restaurant owners John and Sharon Stournaras, asked the board to approve an increased number of bar stools from the current seven to eleven. The Stounaras', who said the restaurant has been in the family for almost 40 years, also wished to change the name from Nicholas Restaurant to the Morse Tavern to reflect Sharon's maiden name and the rich history of the town.

Selectmen Chairman Joshua Ostroff said he did not feel comfortable approving the name change without first consulting the Historic Commission. Historically, there was an Old Morse Tavern and a Peletiah Morse Tavern in town, which he said might confuse residents and visitors interested in the history of the town.

4. Department of Public Works director Bill Chenard requested an additional $600,000 for snow removal. With more snow predicted for the remainder of the winter, more money is needed for parts and repairs and fuel for plows, sand and salt for the roads and walkways, overtime and contractor services. Chenard estimated that by mid week last week, about $648,000 had already been used for snow removal and estimated an additional $70,000 will be needed in the upcoming week. The selectmen granted his request for additional funds.

5. Fire Chief James Sheridan said every hydrant in Natick has been cleared of snow, thanks to the work of the fire department and . The chief and selectman Carol Gloff warned residents they are obligated to clear the snow again if the plows that clear their driveways cover the area again. Sheridan said it is a violation to cover a hydrant and a first offense is a $100 fine.