Town poised to change two elected posts

The Fredonia Town Board is considering changing the elected offices of clerk and treasurer to appointed positions.

The board discussed the change during its Wednesday, April 11, meeting — months ahead of the next election — to have enough time to complete the steps necessary to put the issue to a vote in the November general election.

For towns such as Fredonia with populations of less than 2,500 to convert elected offices to appointed posts, they must first adopt an ordinance that provides for the appointments.  

The ordinance must then be approved by voters on a referendum. The referendum must be held at least 70 days after it is authorized by the board and must be held during the November election.

Town Chairman Rich Mueller said that changing the clerk and treasurer offices to appointed positions will allow the town to choose from more candidates. He also noted that appointees would not have to be town residents.

The discussion is expected to continue at the next board meeting Wednesday, May 9.