Township Clerk Jill Bastian will hold an open house at township hall on Saturday, March 1, for anyone interested in running for local elected office to learn about various job responsibilities and the filing process.
Bastian said the open house, which will run from 10 a.m. to noon, is for anyone considering running for supervisor, clerk, treasurer and trustee.
‘There are some really specific procedures,? she noted. ‘We just want people to have the correct information.?
The event will be held in the lower level/board room area of the building, located at 2525 Joslyn Road, and will also offer information about the township’s new voting machines and provide more information on how to become an election inspector.
Bastian said the township has offered similar open houses under her watch in the past.
‘They’ve been well received,? she said. ‘I think there were a few people that found it to be very helpful.?
Bastian added that those interested in running for office, but cannot attend the open house, can come to the clerk’s counter anytime to obtain more information about the process.
The filing deadline is Tuesday, May 13 at 4 p.m. Bastian said having an open house this early is necessary, because the filing process can be lengthy. It involves garnering signatures and correctly filling out a detailed petition, among other things.
‘There are lots of rules and regulations,? Bastian said. ‘It’s pretty serious business.?
She added that townships are ‘different animals,? and that her office will make packets available and may put some information online in the future.
Bastian said it’s also important for those interested in pursuing an elected position in the township to understand the commitment involved.
‘I want to make sure that anyone who runs has a good sense of the responsibilities involved,? she said.
For more information about the open house, contact the clerk’s office at (248)391-0304, ext. 104.