SOUTHWICK – Town Moderator Celeste St. Jacques is seeking applicants to fill two committee vacancies.
“As the Town Moderator of Southwick, I have the privilege of making two appointments within the next few weeks,” said St. Jacques. “The first position is to fill a vacancy on the Finance Committee for an associate member. The second is to fill a vacancy on the Capital Expenditures Committee.”
The finance position is a 3-year term and the capital position is a one-year term to fill a position. St. Jacques said both “are great opportunities to serve the community and take an active role in Southwick town government.”
The Capital Expenditures Committee is comprised of a cross-sectional representation of the town. The board meets approximately every January, February, and March to make recommendations to the Select Board on Capital Expenditures. These expenditures include purchases of $25,000 or greater, as well as equipment that lasts longer than three years.
“This appointment is generally three years, however, the current Moderator appointment is one year to complete an unfinished term,” said St. Jacques.
The Finance Committee is another aspect of the town government. Acccording to St. Jacques, members of this committee are responsible for recommending appropriations, borrowing, and expenditures to the Select Board. Similar to that of the Capital Expenditures Committee, the position of associate member of Finance Committee is a 3-year term. However, it is an advisory committee only.
“An associate member may participate in discussions, but vote only when needed. This committee meets about once a month and attendance is important to the position,” she said.
Both committees typically meet the evening, after work hours. While a degree in finance is not necessary it is important to come to meetings prepared for what is being discussed and make sound, responsible financial decisions, St. Jacques said.
Anyone interested should email St. Jacques at [email protected] to learn more about these positions.
