The deadline for filing as an independent candidate for Justice of the Peace is rapidly approaching – Friday, August 17th. The Town Clerk and current Chairman of the Board of Civil Authority urge you to consider becoming a candidate for Justice of the Peace (JP) on the November ballot.
While a historic back page in the election process and often the subject of humorous anecdote, JPs serve a vital role in the conduct of critical town responsibilities. A JP is a member of the Board of Civil Authority (BCA). Along with the Selectboard members, and Town Clerk, they function as the Board of Elections by assisting in the maintenance of the voter checklist, determining key issues related to election day and voting, and serve as polling place officials on these days.
Serving on the Board of Tax Assessment Appeals, JPs act as a quasi-judicial body hearing and ruling on the merits of cases brought to the Town by property owners seeking valuation changes. In addition to tax appeals, the BCA is part of the Board for the Abatement of Taxes a statutory function that addresses specific problematic matters affecting properties on the Town Grand List.
JPs do not meet on a regular basis. There are generally one or two meetings prior to any election, a series of tax appeal hearings in late summer/early fall and usually one or two abatement meetings annually, in winter and summer.
We ask that you consider these mandatory responsibilities and consider service to the town as Justice of the Peace. Based on town population, parties in Brattleboro may nominate up to 15 candidates. JPs serve vital roles in our community and those seeking to serve must be committed to attending meetings and participating in the mandatory functions of the Board of Civil Authority.
Please feel free to contact us if we might be of assistance or if you have questions about Board of Civil Authority’s responsibilities, of if you need direction on how to file as an independent candidate for Justice of the Peace.
Sincerely,
Hilary Francis Elliott Greenblott
Town Clerk and Clerk of the Chairman, Brattleboro Board
Board of Civil Authority of Civil Authority
Hilary Francis
Brattleboro Town Clerk
230 Main Street, Suite 108
Brattleboro. VT 05301
hfrancis@brattleboro.org
ph 802-251-8129
fax 802-257-2312
Please be advised that your email communication to the Town may be considered public record and may be subject to disclosure under the Vermont Open Public Records Act.
