Town Moderator

Staff Contacts

Name Title
Jerry Dougherty III Town Moderator (Term Expires 2024)

The Town Moderator is the town official who presides over all town meetings and elections. He or she is elected for a two year term every even numbered year, at the Annual Town Meeting.

On election day, the moderator is the chief election official who is in charge of the polls. He is responsible for making certain that all election officials are available on that day and that they understand their duties for the day. He may also appoint an assistant moderator and any other election officials as he deems necessary.

Prior to opening the polls he should inspect the polls to make certain that voters instructions are posted and that the checklists and voting booths are ready.

In addition, he opens and closes the polls at the designated hour. After the polls are closed,he oversees the counting of votes by other election officials and certifies the checklist used for the election. The moderator also processes absentee ballots and seals the official ballot results.

For additional information on the role of the Town Moderator see the Town Meeting Process listed under Board of Selectmen.