Watson Won't Seek Third Term On Dartmouth Select Board

Dartmouth Select Board member Michael Watson says he will not seek a third term on the Select Board.

Watson made the announcement during Monday night's Select Board meeting.

The two-term Select Board member says two major factors contributed to his decision. Watson says Massachusetts law forbids municipal employees from seeking advancement opportunities where they could financially benefit. Watson is a teacher at Greater New Bedford Voc-Tech High School, which falls under municipal employment. Watson says during the last six years, he's worked to acquire additional professional licenses and certifications to seek advancement in his professional career. With those certifications completed, Watson says he wants to be eligible to explore all employment opportunities. Select Board members receive no financial compensation for their service to the Town.

The other reason, Watson states, is the ongoing public debate over governmental reform in the Town. Watson concluded, however, the structural changes sought by voters could be achieved without him holding a Select Board seat.