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10 The Reporter March 2020 becoming more involved locally. After being in one home for 10 years, we moved several times between 2015 and 2018 while looking for a home to suit our family and our lifestyle.

We were happy to find a home that suited our needs that we were able to afford here in Rehoboth, especially since Nicole’s parents have lived here since 2006. You can imagine our dismay when a few short months later, an override was passed. We could already see history repeating itself. I wanted to make myself aware

Bringing Balance to the Process. The same annual budget process at the district has caused hardship and strife. We need to bring balance where equal weight is given to educational decisions and the financial stability of the towns. Vote for Aaron Morse Dighton-Rehoboth School Committee

Rehoboth Town Election VOTE APRIL 7, 2020

and knowledgeable of town finances and make sure we voted and participated in such a way that would protect not only our way of life, but that of my senior in-laws’ and many other families in town, some of which we have come to know as friends.

To date, our property taxes have increased approximately $1000 due to the override and debt exclusions for the district. This has been difficult for many households in Rehoboth, mine included. Since my wife and I decided we wanted her to be home with our kids full time, we are a single income household. This drastic increase in our cost of living threatens the life we have worked hard for. This is why I am stepping up and putting action to words. I have witnessed first-hand what rapidly increasing taxes can do to the average household, and I am seeing it happen again. It is for this reason that I became active in learning about municipal finance and how the tax levy is calculated. Since moving to Rehoboth, I have been intentional about prioritizing attendance at town meetings and being informed of the goings on around town. This has helped me to truly appreciate the community that has welcomed my family as we begin to grow our roots here. I have met many people and built friendships which has moved me from being active for personal reasons to serving the whole community.

Nicole, our kids and I truly love Rehoboth and we hope to be long-time residents. In order for that to happen, we need fiscal responsibility. I intend to be active in whatever capacity it takes, not only for my family, but all the citizens of Rehoboth, to ensure we have done all we can to keep Rehoboth the desirable and affordable community it has been.

To learn more about me and my position on relevant issues, support my campaign financially or request a yard sign, you can reach me at http://www.facebook.com/morse4sc or by email at morse4rehobothsc@outlook.com. Thank you for your support!

-Aaron Morse

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My School Committee Picks My name is Elizabeth McCann and I am writing to you as a fellow parent to encourage you to come out and vote on April 7th, or in advance by absentee ballot. I am a 16 year resident of Rehoboth, have two children in the school district and I’m a big proponent of our public school system. My husband and I moved here largely due to the fantastic reputation our school system had back then, and I feel it’s our duty as members of the town and supporters of the school to do what we can to help promote that reputation into the future.

I’m not an educator, but I do spend a significant amount of my free time volunteering in the schools and community. I help with PTSA, volunteered to run an after-school math program, assist with local youth sports, teach at our local church and participate in mentoring programs, to name a few. I’m sure my fellow parents in Rehoboth can all agree that supporting our community and children is immensely important to us.

Professionally, I’ve spent nearly the past two decades working in business in the insurance industry and have degrees in both mathematics and quantitative economics. I have a strong analytical background, and I can tell you that I’m extremely concerned for our town and schools long-term if we

go down the path of “minimum funding” for our school budget. I don’t want to settle for “minimum” or slightly above minimum for my children or any of the children of Rehoboth. We should strive to be at least in line with the state average funding in MA and we’re currently notably below that. Our children are the future of this town, and properly educating them is the best chance we have at making Rehoboth a great place to live for years to come.

It’s important to remember that School Committee is an entirely VOLUNTEER position. School Committee members do not get paid any salary for the extensive time and work they put into making our schools and town a better place, which is often equivalent to a full-time job.

Additionally, how I’ve observed our current School Committee members treated on social media and in town meetings over the past year has appalled me as both a town member and a parent. Despite all the bashing, name-calling and personal attacks against them and their families, I’m thankful that we still have community members willing to commit themselves and countless hours to help support our town and our schools.

Fellow Rehoboth parents, the responsible choice on April 7th is to elect Dr Anthony Arrigo and Ellen Corvi for School Committee. They both have children in the school district and have extensive experience and backgrounds in education. I applaud them both for their willingness to step forward for what they believe in: the well-being of our children and our town.

I implore you ALL, including every parent and anyone in the household over 18, to please come out and vote on April 7th.

I know our schedules as parents are all busy, so below are the instructions to complete an absentee ballot if you cannot make it to the polls on April 7th due to work or family obligations. With the absentee ballot process, there is really no excuse why all parents cannot vote in this election! Our children and the future of Rehoboth depend on it.

***Applications for absentee ballots are available and may be obtained from the Town Clerk’s Office. Absentee ballots are obtained by written request only and must have the voter’s original signature (a scanned SIGNED submission, which is emailed to the office, is also acceptable.) The deadline for filing absentee applications is 12:00pm (Noon) the day before the election, or April 6th. The absentee ballot request form is also available online at www.town.rehoboth. ma.us under Departments, Town Clerk, Town Meeting & Election Information.***

Thank you for reading and for supporting our town AND schools by voting Arrigo and Corvi on April 7th! Mark your calendar or request your absentee ballot today! Sincerely, Elizabeth McCann

March 2020 The Reporter 11 Continued on next page.... Food For Thought An elected official is a representative of a body of people. Once elected, your personal views cannot interfere with voting. It is important one’s vote remain as pure as possible, not swayed by personal belief structure.

It’s an honor to represent a body of people; however, I imagine it must be frustrating for our elected officials as your voice gets lost in a sea of other voices which you are bound to represent. Elected officials often refrain from commentary as their input may carry too much weight. The point Is to give a voice to the voiceless, but also to do it in a way which does not interfere with people’s thoughts and rights. This is one of the reasons for fake social media accounts. It is a product of frustrating times.

Year after year it seems as though we have become increasingly down trodden on our futures. Feeling as though there is no hope to ever do things differently. I am here to tell you that nothing is ever set in stone. There is HOPE! With hard work and perseverance I believe that anyone, or any body of people, can achieve anything they want. It all starts with an idea.

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The act of doing something over and over again with the same results is the definition of insanity. We often hear that phrase. It’s no wonder we are at odds with each other every budget season because what we have simply does not fit the needs of our community.

Personally, as one individual (not the person running for office), I believe the “two towns, one future” slogan is a misnomer. It’s unifying, sure, but its forcing something that isn’t accurate. We are one town, we have one future, and we are Rehoboth. Setting ourselves apart from Dighton does not speak to us having lack of

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willingness to help our brethren; it speaks to wanting to be masters of our own fate.

It’s always wise to make decisions independently, in times of need it is good to lean on your neighbored town, but sometimes when you find yourself repeatedly in this situation, you then start doing things out of obligation. Obligation and need is a dangerous thing. If you continue to take, you never are able to establish your needs, you can never get out from under your troubles.

As an individual, I wonder if anyone has considered the thought that Rehoboth could remain rural and take over its own needs. Or are we just so blinded by frustration that we don’t even think to consider it. I believe we need to explore the idea of constructing our own high school alongside a town hall project. Why? Because the needs of one town should never dictate the needs of the other town. We are two separate entities. Two separate communities, two separate economies.

Impossible!, you say? Nothing is ever impossible. I could go on about why socially it would provide a service to a dwindling population, or how it would give people an opportunity up front. One last hurdle to cross instead of year after year struggles. It offers people the dignity they deserve, instead of insecurity about the future year after year. The dignity that the town of Rehoboth deserves. We need to remember who we are, we need to go back to our roots. If we truly are the birthplace of education, maybe it’s time for a rebirth.

This is the stabilization we are seeking! We are a farm town, with a farming community, but we always, always manage to get what we need through grit and determination. This is no different. I ask you to consider the idea for a time, and remember that nothing is impossible. And where appropriate, you should ask for what you want. We are a culture that does not ask for things, but if you never ask, you will never have an opportunity to grow. I am one person, and I am asking if we can have our own future. With respect, Laura E. Dias Samsel

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continued on page 14... Re-Elect Selectman Jim Muri I am running again for the Rehoboth Board of Selectmen after completing a threeyear term and I would like to say a few short things in support of my re-election. My wife Nancy and I moved into Rehoboth in 1991 and immediately fell in love with the Town. We like the open spaces, the friendliness of the people, the spirit of volunteerism, and the overall cohesiveness of the Town. In short, we loved living in a little town where everyone looked after one another. 28 years later and we have two wonderful sons who went through the DR school system, Boy Scouts, various sports, and one son has completed BS degrees in engineering and the other has completed his BS and MS in engineering. Over the past 28 years, I have served the Town on various Boards: Planning Board, the Computer Committee, the Information Technology Advisory Committee, the Open Space Committee, the Gravel Committee, and served as an adult leader in Troop 13 Boy Scouts.

Three years ago when I ran for my first term, I told you about some of the things that I hoped to achieve and I would like to revisit those things:

On April 7, 2020 Ellen Corvi Is running for the Dighton Rehoboth Regional School District School Committee and she would like your support. Your vote matters. Ellen will work for the betterment of our students and will always be asking the right questions to ensure we meet their needs while being fiscally responsible. Your vote will make the difference. See you on April 7, 2020 Shared resources to make better use of existing resources: We have consolidated telephone and internet, eliminating under-used telephone lines and allowing the use of VOIP, which is less expensive than traditional lines. We have implemented consolidation of printer and office supplies so that we can get the best pricing; prior to this each department ordered its own supplies.

Better asset management, to preserve the assets we have and make them last longer: We implemented a preventative maintenance program on our Town buildings so that HVAC, drains, roof inspections, emergency power generators.

Better project management to ensure that when work is done, it is done correctly the first time: Our new Facilities Manager is tasked with managing projects from start-to-finish. This ensures that contractors do quality jobs and ensures that the Town gets the most value out of projects. Numerous projects a Town Hall and Public Safety have resulted in projects that have been completed satisfactorily, under budget and on time.

Better protection of resources to maintain the rural character of the Town: Working in conjunction with various Boards, we have purchased several parcels to increase the open space inventory, including the recently purchased property on Danforth Street, resulting in nearly zero impact on operating budget (legal work only). Better use of volunteerism to engage the help of one of our greatest assets, the People: Numerous volunteers have come forward, including many working at the COA helping our seniors and interns assisting with well mapping, keeping our costs down while providing important service to our Town.

Replacement of aging infrastructure: We have purchased a parcel using solar PILOT money (no impact on taxes or operating budget) centrally located on Anawan Steet that will support new buildings to replace our aging Public Safety Building and Town Hall. We are currently negotiating a deal to purchase used buildings, at minimal cost, from another town. This deal will give us Police and Fire facilities to carry us into the future. Please Re-Elect... Jim Muri Selectman on April 7! Fiscally Conservative with a Proven Record: • Cutting costs • Bringing in grant money • Making the most from Town resources • Preserving existing resources I will fight to lower taxes, improve town facilities, and get more out of every tax dollar! Provide the town with better tools to operate more efficiently and cost-effectively: The IT Department has installed new permitting software that allows contractors and homeowners to file and pay for building permits online. This also allows for automatic project tracking, resulting in more efficient use of town employees’ time. This also reduces the amount of time the Town Clerk’s office spends filling State mandated information requests.

New revenue sources: We have made hosting agreements for both solar and marijuana facilities that result in PILOT revenue to finance future capital projects, including the Town Hall and other capital needs. These new revenue sources allow the Town to pay for these projects without the need for tax increases or bond exclusions, keeping your taxes down. Over the past three years, the Town has taken in over $500K in grant money, including State grants to fund repairs of the COA HVAC systems, State Green Community money to pay for lighting, insulation, and HVAC improvements in Town buildings, IT grant money to pay for improvements in communications and internet throughout the Town, and a host of other grants.

Where do we go from here? We still have a long way to go to ensure the Town’s needs continue to be met. We still need a new Town Hall. We still are not as efficient as we could be. But I am confident that with your vote, we can continue to improve the quality of our infrastructure, keep the Town rural and keep taxes down. Jim Muri

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Why I Am Running for School Committee I believe in three core principles that I plan on supporting with every decision I make. The first principle is we can run a school district that is both enriching for our students and fiscally responsible for the two towns it serves without having proposition 2 1/2 overrides repeatedly. With the proper checks and balances in place along with prioritization of goals and needs this school district can provide our children with a great education and strong foundation for whatever path they choose to take after graduation. Recently though discussions have strayed from money being spent directly on student needs to discussions of public relation groups to sell the message of the schools. You don’t need a public relations group if the message is sound to begin with, parents and the citizens of Rehoboth have proven they are invested in our kids and I believe these choices move in the wrong direction. The second principle is planning and collaboration. In order for our school budget to get the appropriate funding it requires to meet the needs of our students, members of both the school and the two towns need to work together early on in the process in order for all parties to know of the impending economic needs that will be in the upcoming budget. Respecting this process will encourage an open line of communication and understanding of why various line items are essential and for those that may be able to wait for future consideration. In recent meetings the school discussed adding five new positions for the chairing of team meetings of special education. These additions would enable the school psychologist to be freed up to service students more directly and in turn support the social emotional needs that are increasing. Although this does seem to be a credible want at this time, it may not be a need. I would go one step further and say I don’t believe it is at this time. My final reason for running is for the students themselves. Two years ago over ninety teachers were pink slipped until the town of Rehoboth

passed an override. Even then, many teachers had left the district already to find positions that they felt were more stable. This was a huge loss as many were very qualified and enjoyed by the students. Last year we witnessed a year when all student sports and activities were left unfunded until the last possible minute. Having watched that process across the entire funding cycle, I completely disagreed with how it was agreed upon. The cost this had to the district was even more devastating with a loss of trust from families. This time the students left, and will be leaving again this year in large numbers. They are leaving not only to go to BP and Bristol Aggie, but to private schools. When you lose the support of the families you are counting on, you need to re-evaluate what is going on. I think we can do better.

On a final note, the biggest problem this district faces is the assessment funding formula for our district. Our problems began back in 2014, the assessments to the towns in the regional school district were not properly calculated, apparently for nearly seven years. A more aggressive plan for an alternate funding formula needs to take place now.

Ellen Corvi

continued on next page... Seekonk Town Clerk Asks For Your Continued Support I want to thank all the Seekonk residents that have supported me as town clerk. There will be an election on April 6th of this year to vote on specific town positions and the office of town clerk will be challenged. Although it is the right of every citizen/resident to run for office you must consider the ramifications of such a decision. Serving the public comes with high expectations and experience is at the forefront.

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Before I considered running for town clerk I was fortunate to have served as assistant town clerk for two and half years. During that time I was able to learn about the responsibilities, laws and procedures that affect every facet of the office from the former town clerk, who had more than 20 years of experience.

The people of Seekonk depend on the clerk’s office for: Postings of all meetings and agendas of committees and boards, Swearing in of appointed board and committee members, Swearing in of all safety personnel, State ethics training and open meeting laws, Records Assist Officer (RAO), Notary service, Processing board of appeal decisions, Registry deeds filings, Filing of marriage intentions, Process marriage certificate after wedding, Justice of the Peace, Birth Certificates, Death Certificates, Managing town cemeteries – plot purchases, Certification of vital records, Dog licenses, Business Certificates (DBA’s), Yard Sale permits, Raffle Permits, Process yearly census, Prepare yearly street listing for service, Town Meeting and Town Meeting Minutes, Genealogy requests, Records for pole locations, oning and General By-Law filings with the State of Massachusetts, Run all state, national and local elections, Hand out & collect all nomination papers, Certify signatures, Process absentee ballot applications, Process early voting ballots, Post the Warrant, Test and maintain voting machines, Maintain state computer voting registration information system (VRIS), Print voters list, Tally election results, Prepare ballots for elections, Training and scheduling of poll workers, File election reports with the state, File campaign finance reports

The office of Town Clerk requires the experience necessary to provide Seekonk residents with the service expected of this position. I ask the residents of Seekonk to continue your trust in me to maintain the service from this office that you expect. I ask for your vote on April 6th.

Thank You, Florice Craig, Seekonk Town Clerk

No Change Needed Here A State Primary, a presidential election and early voting all on NEW voting machines. Federal census, which will possibly require redrawing some of Seekonk’s precinct lines. Issuing DBA’s, town meeting prep and minutes, poll worker training, vital records maintained and issued, affidavits of correction of vital records, dog licensing, mailing of BA apps to board members, yard sale permits, burial agent tasks---all duties of the Town Clerk regulated by MGL and local laws and charter.

The current Town Clerk is a Justice of the Peace and a Notary Public and attends Massachusetts Town Clerk conferences to stay current on the state laws and duties of the office. Taxpayers of Seekonk already have invested financially in the current Town Clerk for these parts of the job.

Town Clerk connotation does not fairly address the importance of this job. It is one of the first jobs created by our founding fathers and has grown in importance over the years with more mandates by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Not a time to change the person in the office as a new person can not change any of these mandated duties. The learning curve would be tremendous, especially in a big election year. Not needed when the current Town Clerk has already participated in these tasks when she was the Assistant Town Clerk for two years. At the time she was Assistant Town Clerk she prepared for my retirement and was elected to the position. She hired an Assistant Town Clerk who had worked in Town Hall for many years and knew the functions of the other departments in the town. This is a plus when taking on the Town Clerk’s and Assistant Town Clerk’s positions.

The Town Clerk’s position is the only elected position in town that is a real full time salaried job. This is someone’s livelihood. Please don’t treat it like a political football. I ask that you support Florice Craig for re-election to the Town Clerk’s position. Sincerely, Jan Parker, Retired Seekonk Town Clerk

SEEKONK TOWN CLERK EXPERIENCE COUNTS! RE-ELECT CRAIG FLORICE

I have worked for the Town of Seekonk for more than 13 years. Eight years in the planning department and more than 5 years in the Town Clerk’s office. Three years, of which, were as Seekonk’s Town Clerk. I have the experience needed to continue in this important position as I am familiar with the policies, procedures, by-laws and Massachusetts General Law that affect this office. I have enjoyed my years as your town clerk. It has given me the opportunity to meet and help so many of our residents. I hope that you will continue to trust me with this important position. You trusted me with your vote before. I ask for your vote again on April 6, 2020. Thank You Paid for by the committee to re-elect Florice Craig.

The Hickory Nut Though trees Around it Dance and sway, The Hickory Nut Will not Today. Though those Around it Beckon play, The Hickory Nut Will not today. It seems alone Though in A crowd. It won’t Join in, Though it’s Allowed. In stiffer Wind It will Give in And let The dancing Play begin. Don Gardner, Seekonk

To the Seekonk Voters, I endorse Ms. Lydia Cordeiro for the open seat (one-year term) on the Seekonk Board of Water Commissioner in the upcoming election. She has the ability and the desire to work for the people and businesses of Seekonk on the Commission. Please vote for Ms. Lydia Cordeiro for Water Commissioner on April 6 th . I endorse Doug Brown for his re-election bid for a 3-year term to the Seekonk Board of Water Commissioners. I worked with Doug as a fellow Commissioner for the last 3 years. During that time, Doug ably served as the Board’s secretary, vice-chairman and for the last year as the Board’s Chairman. Doug wants to continue working for the people and businesses on the Commission. Please vote for Doug Brown for Water Commissioner on April 6 th Guy Larrimer Seekonk Board of Water Commissioners

Greetings Residents of Seekonk. My name is Bryan P. Mulvey and I am Running for Town Clerk. The role of town clerk is one that is humble and unassuming but one of great responsibility. The town clerk is a person you can spend your entire residency never interacting with, but is someone that ensures the daily tasks of the town are not only accomplished but improved on. The town clerk handles events as important as setting up and managing polling during elections all the way to processing and issuing dog licenses. Alongside all of these important responsibilities appointed to the town clerk is one aspect of the role that at times gets overlooked; that role is being the link

continued on next page...

For the last 6 years, as a member of the Board of Selectmen, David has been a level headed voice of reason and a leader we look for and need to lead the Town of Seekonk. He selflessly stands up to protect our values and beliefs while focusing on making sure that Seekonk comes first. With your support, he has stood his ground and fought against those with agendas and self-interests. His guiding compass: making sure that Seekonk remains Seekonk.

On April 6th, as residents of this Town, let’s get out and show our support for David. Let’s show those with special interests that David represents Seekonk. Let’s make it known that we won’t stand by and allow our Town to be turned into something that we don’t want. The Board of Selectmen needs a person of character with a strong moral compass and work ethic. David is that person.

Vote for our Values and Beliefs …..

between citizen and government; being someone that serves the community by guiding them through what can be complicated and, yes, sometimes intimidating bureaucracy.

I have worked in the service based industry my entire life, from part time at the Stop and Shop deli on Highland ave while studying political science and history at Bridegwater State to a Customer Service Representative in various banks helping customers keep track of their finances while I kept up to date with federal banking regulations and changes. I have also interacted with government bureaucracy first hand while serving in the Massachusetts Army National Guard as a “35F Military Intelligence Analyst”. I know how daunting government forms can be and I know how crucial customer service is. I am dedicated, motivated, and committed to serving not only my nation, my state, but especially my town. My name is Bryan P. Mulvey and I am running to be your town clerk. I invite you to visit my page, stop in and say hi during the meet the candidates at the Seekonk Library, or e-mail me with questions about why I would make a great town clerk for seekonk. fb.me/VoteMulvey vote.Mulvey@gmail.com

VOTE MULVEY Seekonk Town Clerk

Dear Neighbor and Fellow Seekonk Resident, I am writing to respectfully ask that you consider me, Adam Petronio, for Selectman when you vote at the April 6th Annual town election.

As a Selectman, my #1 priority is to remain a servant-leader representing the best interests of all Seekonk residents.

I understand the tremendous responsibility in serving as a member of the chief policy-making board of our great town. Possessing over 30 years of military and civilian experience, I will continue to utilize and apply those interagency and human resource skills in policy development, leadership, and management.

Seekonk is rich in history and culture, and has experienced tremendous growth over the past decade. Now, more than ever, proper management and leadership is needed to oversee the spending of our hard-earned tax dollars. I believe that we can do that responsibly with deliberate and thoughtful leadership.

Together let’s work to keep Seekonk the gem of southeastern New England.

Thank you for your time and, again, I respectfully ask that you consider me, Adam Petronio, when you cast your vote on April 6th. Very Respectfully, Adam Petronio

A Parable Once upon a time, there was a village in a land ruled by an evil king. The people in the village were very unhappy because the king’s men took almost everything they had, leaving them just enough to survive. The village sat on the banks of a mighty river which ran through the kingdom. Legend said at the kingdom’s border the river continued into a vast desert land. Some said it eventually dried up, deep in the desert, swallowed by sand.

But the villagers were so unhappy with their lot, they decided to build a raft and follow the river wherever it took them. So one dark night when the king’s men were asleep they crowded onto the raft and set off downstream. After many days, the land on both sides became arid and desolate; they knew the evil king was behind them. But the land was so barren they kept sailing.

Finally, after many more days, sunrise found them in a lush land. Someone yelled “Look at the right bank. There are mountains and forests and herds of elk to hunt. Row hard for the right shore.” Almost at the same time, someone else yelled “Row to the left. Look at the beautiful farm land and cows just waiting to be killed.” Soon everyone was on one side or the other rowing hard, but neither side could outrow the other. The raft continued downstream. Soon arguments began and fighting broke out. They were so busy fighting, nobody saw the waterfall.

I have watched America’s politics closely for almost fifty years. One thing I know for sure; every administration in my lifetime has lied to me. One other thing I know. Those cheerleaders who screech their disgust for their opponents while ignoring the shortcomings of their own champions are either hypocritically blind to fact or simply not very sharp.

Christopher Manley

fb.me/VoteMulvey vote.Mulvey@gmail.com

From the Town Clerk Hello All ~ Wow, time sure flies when you’re having fun!!! The clerk’s office has been busy processing 2020 census data, dog tag licenses, election nominations, FY 2021 budgets, 2019 annual report submissions, and preparing for the upcoming Presidential Primary (with Early Voting) and Annual Town Elections. It sure made the time pass quickly! To those of you submitting your census documents and for registering your dogs so promptly ~ thank you. We mailed 5,014 census forms in January and received and processed 3,501 households to date. We are still looking for 1,513 census forms to be returned (Precinct 1=484; Precinct 2=500 and Precinct=529). If you have not sent in your census, please forward as soon as possible. A second mailing has gone out to those residents who we do not have phone numbers for and our Registrars, Helene and Jenn, have started calling the remaining residents who have listed phone numbers. Census forms were due January 31st and Dog Licenses will be due by April 1st.

Exciting News in the Town Clerk’s Office Thanks to Town Meeting vote in May of 2019, on Monday, February 3rd the Town Clerk’s Office welcomed a new part-time Administrative Aide, Rehoboth resident Odete Lacourse, to our staff. Odete is an absolute joy to work with. She is extremely professional, proficient in computer skills and has a wonderful rapport with the residents who come to our office for assistance. Odete has been a huge help, a quick learner and a wonderful addition to our office in an exceptionally busy time of year. Lynn and I officially welcome Odete to the Clerk’s Office with this article and look forward to working as a team for many years to come. Please, if you are up at Town Hall, stop by and introduce yourself to Odete. She truly is a welcomed addition to our office and to the residents of Rehoboth! Welcome Odete!

Election Worker Training On Wednesday, February 19, I held a State mandated Election Worker Training Session for all our Election Workers in Rehoboth. The 40+ Election workers were trained on the relatively new Poll Pads (iPad voter check-in system) and learned the responsibilities and Massachusetts General Law requirements, which all election workers must follow during an election. If you would like to see the training session I presented, it is on the Town Clerk’s website under “Election Worker Training” @

https://www.town.rehoboth.ma.us/town-clerk/pages/electionworker-training-resources

The actual PowerPoint is 4.5 MB, so it may take a minute or two to download and view. You may click on the Election Worker Training/Refresher image to download the presentation or the actual attachment, which is listed on the above link. If you are interested in becoming an election worker, simply fill out a Talent Bank form @ continued on next page...

Join Us For Easter Brunch Sunday, April 12th - Seatings from 10:30-2:00 For a complete menu go to our website Call & Reserve Your Table Today...508-252-9761

Adults $42.00 - Children 10 & Under $17.00 - 4 & Under Free *plus tax & gratuity 82 Hillside Avenue, Rehoboth MA • www.HillsideCountryClub.com Breakfast All your favorite Breakfast items from Scrambled Eggs, Bacon, Plant Based Breakfast Sausage to Belgian Waffles & Bisquits New Kids Statio ! Chicken Fingers, Hand-cut French Fries Lu ch Chicken Piccatta, Stuffed Pork Loin with Apple Demi Glaze, Seafood Stuffed Sole with Lemon Buerre Blanc, Plant Based Chicken, Gluten Free Penne Pesto Alfredo, Potato, Seasonal Vegetable & Rice Pilaf Carvi g Statio Honey Baked Ham Call for Reservation ~ 508-252-9761

https://www.town.rehoboth.ma.us/sites/rehobothma/files/uploads/talent_bank_form-revised.pdf and send it into the Board of Selectmen’s Office. Thank you for considering being an Election Worker. It is a fun day and we have a lovely group of ladies and gentlemen to work with!

Town Clerk’s Devens Conference ~ Feb 6th On Thursday, February 6th, I attended the Massachusetts Town Clerk’s Association Educational Conference in Devens, Massachusetts. I am required to take these classes to maintain my CMC/ CMMC certifications as Town Clerk. During the one-day conference I participated in an Election Preparedness in 2020 Workshop presented by Michelle Tassinari, Director and Legal Counsel, Elections Division, Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth. This class was quite informative. During the class we covered all aspects of election administration and preparation in anticipation of the 2020 Primaries and Elections, with a special focus on the Presidential Primary. We also reviewed Early Voting, Absentee Voting, and took a deep dive into the UOCAVA (Overseas) Voting process. Other topics included provisional voters; party enrollment and voting; electioneering; tallying; and closing the polls. Discussion also ensued regarding new regulations on implementation of Early Voting in a Primary for the first time in Massachusetts. There was a question and answer session to address any town’s individual issues, where we also discussed the Massachusetts Election Laws (MGL) that require our election workers to recite the voter’s name and party ballot they will be voting during a Primary Election. Michelle has promised to share the actual law and statement the election workers should share with voters when they are concerned their party ballot announced. I will also share that information in my Reporter article once I receive the info from Michelle.

The next class I attended was “Election Cyber Security”, which was presented by the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s Cyber Security Team, which included Michelle Tassinari as well as the Cyber Security Team that have worked previously with the FBI and Homeland Security. The Cyber Security Team was quite impressive and discussed ongoing efforts to protect the statewide election infrastructure with us. They also discussed the various threats seen nationally and how those threats are manifesting themselves locally. They reviewed the attempts to scan and infiltrate the VRIS (Voter Registration Information System) network, how those attempts have been thwarted, what they are doing to protect against future threats, and how the local Town Clerks can assist in that effort. They also explained a new outreach program being offered by the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth. This new partnership seeks volunteer participation with municipal election clerks, “me”, municipal IT personnel, “our IT Director”, and their municipal administrative offices, “our Town Administrator” to establish and improve communication with the Secretary’s Elections and IT departments. They are seeking feedback on what

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we are experiencing at the local level and how the SEC office can help us to continue to protect our democracy against our many adversaries. I was extremely impressed to learn from the State’s Cyber Security Team that Massachusetts leads the country on election security and is also being used as a model for other states to emulate. Very impressive!!

Upcoming 7th Annual Rehoboth-Seekonk Rabies Clinic – March 14, 2020 Rob Johnson, our Animal Control Officer, Lynn Shaker, and I are thrilled to be a part of the 7th Annual combined Rehoboth-Seekonk Rabies Clinic on Saturday, March 14th from 9 a.m. to Noon at the Seekonk Highway Department – Route 44 & Lake Street. Both Seekonk and Rehoboth Town Clerks will be there along with Animal Control Officers from both towns and a Veterinarian from Dr. Truesdale’s office along with his staff. Rabies shots will cost $12 and residents also have the opportunity to renew their dog’s 2020 Dog License at the same time. We will even have dog treats available for our four-legged friends. The clinic is open to all animal owners. Cats must be in carriers, dogs on leashes. Massachusetts animal owners must bring either a certificate for a rabies vaccination dated between March and June of last year or a previous Massachusetts three-year rabies certificate from a veterinarian. Our yearly rabies clinics have been a huge success over the past six years, and we look forward to holding many more in the years to come. We hope to see you on Saturday, March 14th.

Dog Licenses For 2020 The 2020 Dog Licenses are now available and are due by April 1, 2020. Residents may either purchase their dog’s 2020 Dog License by mail, online at:

https://www.invoicecloud.com/rehobothgovsvcs, or in person at the Town Clerk’s Office. The office hours are Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and on Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The licensing fees are as follows: Male or female dog $20.00; female-spayed or male-neutered $10.00. If paying by check, please make sure it is made payable to “Town of Rehoboth”. Whether renewing online, via mail, or in person, dog license applications must be accompanied by a current year rabies certificate (with a vaccination date covering the current licensing year) and proof of spay or neuter [if applying for the $10 licensing fee] unless we already have your documentation on file in the Clerk’s Office. If you are unsure, please give our office a call (508-252-6502 x-3109-Lynn or x-3110-Laura), and we can tell you how up-to-date our information is. Dog owners should note that the license(s) will not be returned unless a stamped, self-addressed envelope is included with current postage (71¢ for one dog tag, 93¢ for two dog tags and $1.15 for three dog tags). If no postage is enclosed, we will hold the dog licenses for you at town hall. You may pick them up at your convenience. To date we have already registered 712 of the 2,000+ dogs in Rehoboth. Thank you all for renewing your licenses so promptly. Also, another reminder to those residents 70 years of age or older . . . if over 70 years old, as per MGL 140§139(c) and town meeting vote, the Clerk’s Office will waive the $10/$20 license fee; however, you must still apply for the license and show the current year rabies certificate.

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Annual Town Election ~ April 7, 2020 The Town of Rehoboth Annual Town Election will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2020 with the polls in all three precincts open from 7am to 8pm. As with all elections, the election warrant will be posted, with the polling hours, at the normal three posting locations in each of the three precincts. Election warrant press releases are also sent to the local newspapers, Rehoboth Reporter, Sun Chronicle & Taunton Gazette to post. In addition, the polling hours for the Annual Town Election will be noted on the front page of the Town Website (www.town.rehoboth.ma.us).

Frazao Insurance Karen E. Frazao Owner ~ An Independent Agent HOME • AUTO • COMMERCIAL Let my family insure yours! The Democratic Town Committee held their Caucus on Saturday, February 22nd at Goff Hall with the following Democratic Caucus Nominees being placed on the Annual Town Election Ballot: Moderator for one year term – incumbent William J. Cute, Jr. and D-R Regional District School Committee member - Three-Year term – incumbent Anthony F. Arrigo. Both candidates will be listed as Democratic Caucus Nominees on the April 7th ballot.

The Republican Town Committee held their Caucus on Thursday, February 20th at the COA (Senior Center) with the following Republican Caucus Nominees to be placed on the Annual Town Election Ballot: Selectman (2 positions) for three-year term – incumbents James J. Muri and David A. Perry, Jr.; Tax Collector for three year term – incumbent Cheryl A. Gouveia; Assessor for three year term – Riccardo Binetti; D-R Regional School Committee member (2 positions) – for a three-year term – Incumbent Richard S. Barrett and “Endorsed”* candidate Aaron D. Morse. Park Commissioner for a five-year term – John “Jake” David Kramer; Planning Board for a five-year term – incumbent Edward J. Bertozzi, Jr.; Water Commission (2 positions) for a three-year term – incumbents Patricia A. Vadnais and “Endorsed”* candidate Katie E. Eyer. The above mentioned “Republican” candidates will be listed on the April 7th ballot as Republican Caucus Nominees. *As Unenrolled “Nomination Paper Certified” Candidates, the Republican Town Committee endorsed two candidates, Aaron D. Morse for D-R Regional District School Committee member for the three-year term and Katie E. Eyer (Incumbent) for Water Commission’s member for a three-year term. Both endorsed candidates will not appear on the ballot with a “Republican Caucus Nominee” designation as they are not “Republican” candidates.

In addition to the above-referenced candidates, this year there were several nomination papers pulled with six “official” candidates certified, by our office, to appear on the April 7, 2020 Annual Town Election Ballot. “Independent/Unenrolled” or “NonDesignated” candidates Laura E. Dias Samsel for the three-year term of Selectman, Ellen M. Corvi and Aaron D. Morse for the three-year D-R Regional School Committee member; Katie E. Eyer (Incumbent) for the three-year Water Commissioner and Republican Candidates Jim Muri and David Perry (Incumbents) for the 3-year Selectman term. With all the nominations considered, there will be two contested races for the April 7th Annual Town election ~ the two 3-year Selectman positions and the two 3-year D-R Regional School Committee member positions. In addition to the contested races, we BIRD FOOD • FEEDERS • GARDEN ACCENTS • UNIQUE GIFTS *Valid in-store only at the Seekonk location. One discount per purchase. Offer not valid on previous purchases, gift cards, optics, DSC memberships or sale items. Offer valid NOW thru 03/31/20. One Regularly-priced item* 20% OFF 1462 Fall River Ave. (rte 6), Seekonk, MA 02771 (508) 336-4043 • www.wbu.com/seekonk Carolina Chickadee BIRD FOOD • FEEDERS • GARDEN ACCENTS • UNIQUE GIFTS 1462 Fall River Ave. Seekonk, MA 02771 (508) 336-4043 • www.wbu.com/seekonk *Valid in-store at the Wild Birds Unlimited of Seekonk . One discount per purchase. Offer not valid on previous purchases, gift cards, optics, DSC memberships or sale items. Offer valid NOW thru 02/23/20. 20% OFF ONE ITEM* will also have a “not binding” ballot question voted by the Board of Selectmen. The questions will read:

Non-Binding Ballot Question: “Do you support a maximum 35 mph speed limit on all otherwise unposted streets within the Town of Rehoboth?” ____ Yes ____ No Upcoming Voter Registration Session The final date to register to vote in the Annual Town Election is Wednesday, March 18th. Prospective voters are reminded that they may register to vote online by going to www.RegisterToVoteMA.com or by visiting the Town Clerk’s Office, picking up a voter registration form at the Rehoboth Post Office, by calling the Town Clerk’s Office to request a Mail-In voter registration form or download a form online @ http://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/Voter-reg-mail-in. pdf . As an added convenience, the Town Clerk’s office will be open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM on March 18th to accommodate last minute registrations.

Absentee Ballot Applications Applications for absentee ballots are also available and may be obtained from the Town Clerk’s Office, at the post office, or online @ http://www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/elepdf/absentee/EnglishAbsentee-Ballot-Application.pdf if you will be unavailable to vote in person at the Tuesday, April 7th Annual Town Election. An absentee ballot may only be obtained by written request and with the voter’s original signature. The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot for the Annual Town Election is Monday, 6th at 12:00 p.m. “noon”.

continued on next page... Mail It is requested that when you send correspondence to any office at the Town Hall you only include information specific to the department you want to communicate with. As an example, residents We Love Referrals!

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