Dartmouth Select Board To Decide On Replacing John George

With the official resignation of former Dartmouth Select Board member, John George, Jr. on Monday night, the current members must now decide to replace him or not.

The Board chose to take public opinion in the coming week, and will decide at next week's meeting to have the special election, or not.

A special election could cost the town up to $25,000, and would require at least 64 days before the election is held.

Chairman Shawn McDonald says cost and voter turnout are two major factors in the decision, but still believes a fifth board member is important.

McDonald said, "It's what the town wanted. It's what the town voted for, and they have the right to have as many people up here debating the issues and offering their opinion on the issues."

While the town's charter requires a total of five board members, McDonald as chairman can cast a deciding vote in the case of a tie between the four current members.

Board members urged residents to contact them through the town website to voice their opinions on the election.

If the Select Board chooses not to hold a special election, Dartmouth residents can override the decision with a 200-signature petition.