GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — Candidates can now begin taking out nomination papers to run for election to a board or committee.

 

The last day to take out papers is March 17. The last day to return papers is March 21, by 5 pm

 

Papers need a minimum of 30 signatures 

 

The annual town election is May 9.

 

"Half of the job is knowing how the town works and answering residents' questions and the other half is listening," said outgoing Selectboard member Ed Abrahams, who won't seek re-election after serving three terms. "If you have a serious interest in town government operations and in our community, this is a great opportunity."

 

If after all that signature collecting the candidate has a change of mind, the deadline for pulling out of the race is April 6, at 4 p.m.  For that, another form is needed: the Withdrawal of Nomination form, which must be returned to the Town Clerk's office.

 

Meanwhile, residents who haven't done so should register to vote. Registered voters are reminded to return their annual town street listing forms to Town Hall, to keep their names on the town voter rolls.