Will Natick Appoint Its Next Town Clerk? Ballot Question To Decide

NATICK, MA — Natick will hold its annual town elections later this month and, in addition to a number of candidates running for local office, the future of the town clerk position will be determined.

No, not necessarily the sitting town clerk, but how future candidates get selected for the job.

Natick has one ballot question in the March 28 elections, and it will determine whether the position will move from an elected one to an appointed one.

The question reads: "Shall the Town approve the Charter Amendment proposed by a vote of the Natick 2022 Fall Annual Town Meeting under Article 16..."

If voters choose the "Yes" option, then the town charter will need to be altered to reflect these changes. The town has included the proposed new language for this potential move, which gives voters a look into powers, duties and qualifications of the clerk.

Read more: Natick's 2023 Town Election Candidates Revealed

If moved to an appointed position, the clerk would be appointed by the town administrator for a term of three years. This process could include a screening committee for appointments, but that would need to be established by a bylaw.

Should the position be vacated by any means, the town administrator would also then have the power to appoint a temporary town clerk until another is appointed.

The job duties would largely remain the same, with the clerk being responsible for keeping vital statistics, administering oaths of office, issuing licenses and permits and conducting elections.

To view the full ballot question, click here.