After a long absence, Town Clerk Linda Perkins has submitted her resignation effective Oct. 1. Assistant Town Clerk Deborah Nelson has filled the position during Perkins’ absence and will continue to serve.
First Selectman Matt Riiska told his board Wednesday that, per state statute, he has appointed Nelson as interim town clerk “for the time being.” He wants to make the office an appointed, rather than an elective, position. The issue will be taken to a town meeting soon, possibly right after this November’s national election.
Selectman Henry Tirrell asked about the need for an assistant town clerk and Riiska said one would be needed “sooner rather than later.”
Making the town clerk an appointed position would follow a trend seen in many communities where different administrative positions have become more technical and demanding. The town clerk must be certified by the state and up to date on the ever-changing regulations, Riiska told his board. Nelson passed the state exams and became certified this past July.
If Norfolk votes to appoint the town clerk, it will be the fifth town hall office to be so staffed. Currently, the assessor, tax collector, zoning enforcement officer and building inspector are appointed.
Like the town clerk, the town treasurer is also elected, but Riiska prophesied that in the future all positions will be appointed. He asserted that while the town may still elect boards of selectmen, it will probably eventually have a town manager. “Things are getting much more sophisticated,” he said, “and you have to get the right people who can do the jobs needed.”