Associate Member Slots Created to "Deepen the Bench" for Local Boards
Key Points
- Creates non-voting associate positions for three major town committees.
- Provides a pathway for residents to learn board responsibilities before becoming full members.
- Associate members only vote in cases of absences or recusals.
Town Meeting approved Article 23, creating associate member seats for the Advisory Board, Council on Aging, and Capital Budget Committee. The new positions are intended to serve as a training ground for residents interested in municipal service.
Select Board member S. Darcy explained that these slots help deepen your bench
by allowing residents to learn the intricacies of committee work before stepping into a full voting role. Associate members will participate in discussions but will only cast votes if a full member is absent or must recuse themselves from a specific matter. The Advisory Board expressed support for the change as a way to ensure continuity on important town committees.
Motion: To amend the Marshfield Town Code to create associate memberships for certain appointed boards.
Vote: Passed