Millis officials are moving forward with a significant proposal to transition the town clerk position from an elected to an appointed role, a change that has been discussed for years. During the Select Board meeting on March 17, 2025, members highlighted the increasing complexity and workload of the town clerk's responsibilities, which have evolved beyond traditional record-keeping to encompass a wide range of legal and administrative duties.

The discussion was informed by recommendations from a charter review committee and a 2019 study by Community Paradigm Associates, both of which emphasized the need for a full-time, appointed town clerk to enhance continuity and accountability. Currently, the elected town clerk can change every three years, which can disrupt the office's operations and training. An appointed clerk would be accountable to the Select Board and the town administrator, ensuring more consistent oversight and responsiveness to community needs.

Select Board members expressed strong support for the change, citing the importance of having a dedicated professional in the role who can navigate the complexities of modern governance, including compliance with evolving laws and regulations. The board is considering placing a warrant article on the upcoming town meeting agenda and potentially a ballot question for the annual election to gauge community support for this transition.

The Select Board must decide on the warrant article by March 31 to meet the necessary deadlines. If approved, this change could significantly impact how the town clerk's office operates, aiming to better serve the residents and businesses of Millis.