Peterborough Town Meeting 2025: Article 1 – Election of Officers

Peterborough Town Meeting 2025: Article 1 – Election of Officers

The Annual Town Meeting in Peterborough, New Hampshire, is a cornerstone of local democracy, allowing residents to shape the town’s future through deliberation and voting. On May 13, 2025, at the Town House Upper Hall (1 Grove Street, Peterborough, NH 03458), the second session of the 2025 Town Meeting will include Article 1: Election of Officers, a critical component of the town’s governance.

What is Article 1?

Article 1 focuses on electing officials to various town positions for the fiscal year 2026. These roles are essential for managing Peterborough’s operations, from financial oversight to community services. The positions up for election, along with the candidates running for each, as outlined in the Fiscal Year 2026 Town Meeting Warrant, are:

• Selectman (Three-Year Term, vote for not more than one): A key decision-maker on the Select Board, responsible for town policies and budget oversight.
  
  • Candidates: River Marmorstein, Bonnie Tucker
    
• Trustee of the Trust Funds (Three-Year Term, vote for not more than one): Manages the town’s trust funds, ensuring financial integrity.
  
  • Candidate: Andrew Manns
    
• Budget Committee (Three-Year Term, vote for not more than three): Advises on the town’s budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility.
  
  • Candidates: Dan Groz, David Odland, Anthony Pascale
    
• Zoning Board of Adjustment (Three-Year Term, vote for not more than one): Reviews zoning variances and appeals, shaping land use.
  
  • Candidates: Daron L. Janis, Christopher Maident
    
• Library Trustee (Three-Year Term, vote for not more than one): Oversees the Peterborough Town Library’s operations and policies.
  
  • Candidate: Kristina “Tina” Kriebel
    
• Planning Board (Three-Year Term, vote for not more than two): Guides the town’s development and zoning regulations.
  
  • Candidates: Michael A. McGill, Carl Staley
    
• Recreation Committee (Three-Year Term, vote for not more than one): Manages recreational programs and facilities.
  
  • Candidate: Matthew Harris
    
• Recreation Committee (Two-Year Term, vote for not more than one): A shorter-term role to support recreation initiatives.
  
  • Candidate: Helen Fairman
    
• Cemetery Trustee (Three-Year Term, vote for not more than one): Maintains and oversees the town’s cemeteries.
  
  • Candidate: Linda Guyette
    

Why It Matters

The election of these officers directly impacts how Peterborough operates. Each role contributes to the town’s ability to provide services, maintain infrastructure, and plan for the future. For example, the Selectman and Budget Committee members play a pivotal role in approving the $19,047,184 budget proposed for FY 2026 (Article 3). Similarly, the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Adjustment influence how the town grows, balancing development with community needs.

By participating in the election, residents ensure that qualified and committed individuals represent their interests. These positions require dedication to public service, as elected officials will make decisions affecting everything from recreation programs to cemetery upkeep.

How to Participate

The ballot session for Article 1 will take place on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Town House Upper Hall. Qualified voters can cast their ballots for the candidates of their choice. To prepare:

• Check your voter registration status with the Town Clerk’s office.
• Learn about the candidates running for each position. Candidate information is often shared through local news, town websites, or community forums.
• Attend the third (open) session on May 14, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at the Town House to vote on remaining articles after the second session.

Get Involved

The election of officers is more than a civic duty—it’s an opportunity to shape Peterborough’s future. Whether you’re voting for a Selectman to guide town policies or a Recreation Committee member to enhance community programs, your voice matters. Mark your calendar for May 13, 2025, and make sure to cast your ballot at the Town House Upper Hall.

For more details on the Town Meeting or the warrant articles, visit the Peterborough Town Clerk’s website or contact the Town Clerk’s office directly. Stay engaged, and help ensure Peterborough remains a vibrant and well-managed community!