The Harwich local election landscape is beginning to take shape ahead of the March 31 nomination deadline, with the Board of Library Trustees currently standing as the only potentially contested race. During Wednesday’s Voter Information Committee meeting, members reported that while four residents have pulled papers for two library vacancies, no candidates have yet returned their filings to the Town Clerk. Conversely, the Water and Wastewater Commission faces a potential candidate deficit. The Chair noted that Town Clerk Emily Mitchell requested the committee put a plug in for that board, as only one person has pulled papers for two open seats. If no other residents step forward, the second vacancy would eventually be filled by a write-in candidate or an appointment by the Select Board.

Other town races remain quiet as the return deadline looms. Two individuals have pulled papers for two available seats on the Select Board, and the School Committee has seen interest for all three of its vacancies—two for three-year terms and one for a single-year spot. The Chair observed that, at the moment, the Select Board race is not contested because the number of interested residents matches the number of openings, though filings remain unofficial until the end of the month.

To assist voters in evaluating the field, the committee finalized the logistics for a Candidates Forum scheduled for Thursday, April 16, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM in the Town Hall Griffin Room. Partnering with the League of Women Voters, the event will prioritize contested races while providing a platform for unopposed candidates to introduce themselves. Committee member Emily Mitchell suggested maintaining the tradition of allowing uncontested candidates to record statements early. Mitchell noted, The benefit is that the room is already booked and it's all in one shot. The con is that not everyone is available then. Personally, it might be easier to do it all in one night. Member Pauline [Last Name Unknown] expressed her willingness to support the event logistics, stating, I'm still in the learning stages, but if someone wants to come in, I can try and make arrangements.

The committee itself is bracing for a significant leadership transition that could threaten its ability to maintain a quorum. The Chair announced her intention to resign effective June 30, citing a new job and other personal commitments. With member Joy Jordan’s term also expiring at the end of the fiscal year, the board is urgently seeking new volunteers. We need at least three members for a quorum, the Chair warned, adding, I encourage people to apply on the Select Board's website... it's a great way to make a difference.

Looking ahead to the fall, the committee plans to revitalize its educational programming. Mitchell noted that she has been in discussions regarding Town Meeting 101 sessions, an initiative that aligns with the interests of incoming Town Administrator James McGrail. Mitchell indicated that McGrail is interested in partnering on such programs to help residents navigate warrant articles and citizen petitions. This educational push comes as the town handles complex regulatory matters, including the 456 Queen Anne Road 40B housing application, a project that has recently faced scrutiny from the Zoning Board of Appeals regarding traffic safety and site access.