HATFIELD — A two-way race to complete the final two years of a term on the Hatfield Housing Authority is the only competitive election facing voters at town election on May 11.
To complete the unexpired term of Stanley “Buster” Symanski, who died in office in March, Michael W. Hogan of Main Street and Stanley John Pitchko, Jr. of Prospect Street are facing off. Alex Malinowski, an incumbent on the same board, is running unopposed for a five-year seat.
Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Memorial Town Hall.
In an online candidates forum recorded by Hatfield Community TV, both Pitchko and Hogan said they would continue Symanski’s dedication to the board.
Pitchko said the Housing Authority needs well-thought-out capital plans and to provide appropriate oversight, aligned with community values, to the executive director.
“My goal is simple,” Pitchko said. “To ensure every decision made by the board impacts and improves the quality of our most valued residents, our senior citizens.”
Hogan said he hopes to be a voice for senior citizens who live at Capawonk Housing for the Elderly.
“I certainly have a special place in my heart for the elderly,” Hogan said.
Hogan said a recent tour of the property showed the need to make sure that the parking lot is safer for walking and to add parking spaces so some residents can park closer to their homes. He would also explore solar projects and purchase of a generator.
Jennifer Maloney is the lone candidate for a three-year seat on the School Committee, while a second position will be determined by write-in candidates, according to Town Clerk Lydia Szych. Both incumbents, Heather Cahill and Jillian Robinson, opted not to run for reelection.
Szych said whoever receives the most write-in votes will have the option of whether or not to accept the position.
Incumbents are seeking reelection for other positions, including Edmund Jaworski, Jr., for a three-year seat on the Select Board; Michael Paszek for a five-year term on Planning Board; Dodie Gaudet for a three-year term as library trustee; Scott McCoy for a three-year term and James Lavallee for a two-year seat on the Board of Assessors; Jeffrey Zgrodnik for a three-year seat on the Board of Health; Lucinda Williams for a three-year position on the Cemetery Commission; and William Betsold, Jr. for a one-year term as Elector under the Oliver Smith Will.
Scott Merzbach can be reached at smerzbach@gazettenet.com.
