After a tumultuous time on the Warner Select Board, Chairman Harry Seidel will not seek reelection for his position. Two selectmen resigned in July 2023, leaving Seidel as the sole board member. He petitioned for resident Faith Minton to temporarily fill one seat and interviewed several candidates for the third, which selectman Michael Smith now fills.
A town administrator on leave, a delayed audit and rising tensions have also plagued the board in recent years.
Two residents are now vying for Seidel’s three-year position: Richard Bixby Jr. and Mark O’Neil. Voters will cast their ballots on March 10 at Warner Town Hall, with town meeting occurring the next day at 6 p.m.
The Monitor sent questionnaires to all select board and school board candidates running in towns within our coverage area. O’Neil did not submit a form upon request.
What is your occupation or experience?
Bixby: I’m a former Warner highway department employee and have served on the budget committee for four years. I understand how town service operates from the ground.
Why are you running and what do you see as the most pressing issues in town?
Bixby: I’m running because I believe the town deserves steady and practical leadership focused on serving residents. We need to find new ways to bring more revenue to town to help with taxes.
What do you hope to accomplish if you are elected?
Bixby: Have a board that works together with all town employees to focus on best serving the residents of Warner.