SOUTHWICK – Michael Doherty was appointed as the associate member of the planning board last night.
A joint meeting of the board of selectmen and planning board was held, and three candidates offered their service to the town.
Doherty, an attorney, has lived in Southwick just over a year. He threw his hat into the ring last year when the board was seeking an associate and once again offered to serve.
“I was a member of the zoning board where I previously lived in Randolph,” he said. “This is something I’m interested in doing. I would like to get involved in the town.”
Frank Larson also applied for the position for the second time. A town resident for eight years, he offers experience in the mortgage and real estate field.
“I think I can make a difference on the board,” he said.
The third candidate was nine-year town resident Ralph Pittello.
Pittello is known in Southwick for his work with Motocross 338 for many years. He said last night that he has also served on a number of local non-profit boards, including several terms as president of various boards.
“I don’t have any planning board experience but I am willing to learn and do the best for the town,” he said.
Planning Board Chairman Douglas Moglin recommended Doherty, who was who unanimously approved.
Moglin said that according to the town bylaw the associate position is a “weak position” but Moglin said he believes the opposite is true.
“We view that position as a place to learn,” he said, adding that he served as the associate before running for election.
“We encourage the associate member to attend all the meetings and participate in all discussions,” Moglin said. “The associate usually makes the decision to opt to run for election or is sometimes promoted by these boards.”
Doherty will serve as the associate member for the remainder of a one year term.
