Planning Board race sees two potential contenders so far

As the Annual Town Election approaches, Planning Board incumbent Kevin Estes may face some competition from challenger Joel Smith.

As of Tuesday, Feb. 3, Estes and Smith are the only two people to have taken out nomination papers for the Planning Board position, though their names won’t appear on the ballot until the town clerk certifies the paperwork.

Estes joined the Planning Board in 2021 and would begin his second term if he were to be reelected.

While Estes couldn’t be reached for comment, he said in a 2021 interview with Dartmouth Week that he has “an interest in seeing the development and the preservation of the town and its character.”

He also said at the time that he would like to make it easier for people trying to “accomplish good things” in terms of building in town.

Smith said he chose to take out nomination papers because he cares about people who are "less fortunate."

He said that if elected he would start with what people ask for and what “never got done.”

Estes and Smith will have until Tuesday, Feb. 17 to return their papers with the required 50 signatures for certification.

Others interested in running for any available position have until Friday, Feb. 13 to take out papers from the Town Clerk’s Office in Town Hall. Nominees will have until Tuesday, March 31 to withdraw from the race.

The Annual Town Election will be held on Tuesday, April 7, with polling locations open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

For more election information, visit the election information page on the Town of Dartmouth website.