Nomination papers available for Grafton election — let the races begin!

Let the politics begin! Nomination papers are now available for the May 19 town election, with seats on the Select Board, School Committee, and Planning Board up for grabs.

The election will also bring about a major change at Town Meeting, as longtime Town Moderator Raymond Mead has announced he will not be seeking re-election .

On the Select Board, Jennifer Thomas is seeking re-election. Donna Stock, who won the remaining term of former Select Board member Bruce Spinney in the fall, will now have to run again for her first three-year term.

The Planning Board has a three-year term available, now held by Linda Hassinger. Member Justin Wood, who was appointed to take over the seat of Michael Scully, is up for election to a one-year term.

The School Committee has a three-year term available, a spot now held by Melissa Mazan. Heather Riley, who was appointed to take over the seat held by now-Selectman Peter Carlson, is up for election to a one-year term.

There are two three-year terms available on the Library Trustees and one five-year term available on the Grafton Housing Authority.

Any registered voter of Grafton may pull papers.

• Papers can be pulled at any time during regular business hours
• Papers must be returned to the Registrar of Voters, through the Town Clerk’s office, by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31 for certification
• Nomination papers must contain the names of at least 50 registered voters of Grafton, but candidates are urged to submit more than the minimum number required in case some names or signatures cannot be verified
• Candidates may withdraw their nomination papers up until 5 p.m. on Thursday, April 16
• The Annual Town Election is on Tuesday, May 19 from 8 a.m.-8 p.m.