Official Announces They Will Not Seek Re-Election

The city's School Committee will be down a member unless someone steps up to fill the shoes of member Jennifer Hardy who announced she did not intend to run for re-election in November.

"I have to pursue the next steps in my licensure and I cannot create more hours in the day," she said explaining that she enjoyed her time on the committee and hopes to return some day.

She encouraged anyone interested in the position to pull papers and run for the role. She said that she would welcome meeting with people who are interested in the position to discuss it with them.

“I would love to have coffee or conversation with anyone interested," said Hardy.

The other two committee members whose positions are up in the coming elections, Michelle Bodin-Hettinger and Mark Hediger, have pulled papers for their positions. Denise Ryan has also pulled papers for the committee.

Papers to run for office are available at the City Clerk's Office in City Hall until August 16, 2013 at 5 p.m. They must be returned with the signatures of 50 registered voters by August 20, 2013 at 5 p.m.

The positions that are open are:

• Mayor for two year term
• Four At Large Councilors for two year term
• Seven Ward Councilors for two year term
• Three School Committee members for four year terms