[Massplanners] Elected Board - proof of residency

[Jeff Lacy]

Surely, if my planning board was in same situation, town counsel would advise us. That’s really where the answer lies. Sounds political, reflecting a poor relationship between select and planning boards. You might have to wait this out if select board will not appoint a replacement to serve out the term.

Jeff Lacy
Rural Planning Associates
(413) 253-0705

Sent from my iPhone

> On Sep 13, 2021, at 9:24 PM, Rebekah Cornell via MassPlanners <massplanners at masscptc.org> wrote:
> 
> 
> My dearest planners, 
> 
> I have one for you all that has been a problem for the West Brookfield Planning Board for nearly a year. We have a member that stopped showing up to meetings last October. It's an elected position and the only solution seems to be a recall election. This would cost the town money we don't have. Alas,  after months  of hoping to receive a resignation letter I think we are at this last resort.
> 
> I come to you with a few facts: They have sold their home in town. There is no other property listed under their name in town. The rumor is that they have moved out of town, and this seems to be confirmed by several different people. Someone visited them yesterday (about this topic) but they refused to answer the door.
> 
> 1. How can we prove they have moved out of town? They are still registered to vote at their old address.
> 2. Can a PB member file the recall petition, or does it need to be someone outside the Board? 
> 3. When you had your proof, where do you bring it for action on the residency? Town Clerk?
> 
> The Selectboard and Town Counsel have stated they will not help. Town Clerk office is also not so helpful.
> 
> If there is a window when the absent PB member is not living in town and it can be proved -- I would like to take advantage of that. We have an interested party that is ready to be appointed to the seat. And we're broke. It would be an ideal solution. 
> 
> Your wisdom and experience is appreciate. 
> 
> Thank you, 
> 
> Rebekah L. Cornell
> 
> (formerly DeCourcey)
> 16 Ridge Road
> W. Brookfield, MA
> 603-391-8653
> 
> Chair, W. Brookfield Planning Board
> Conservation Administrator/Planner, South Hadley
> 
> -- 
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> MassPlanners at masscptc.org
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