Steamboat Pilot & Today

Three people have expressed interest in running for mayor, but Hayden officials still are wondering who wants to be a trustee on the Town Board.

Maybe it is time to think about going into politics.

Nomination petitions for three trustee positions and mayor will be available Monday at Town Hall.

"I would hope someone that's interested is familiar with what we are trying to accomplish," Town Manager Russ Martin said.

Town Board trustees are limited to two four-year terms, meaning trustees Crecencio "Chencho" Salazar and Tim Frentress will be giving up their seats in April. The mayor also is term-limited after three two-year terms, meaning Charles Grobe will be stepping down.

Although Grobe cannot be mayor again, he can run for trustee, and Salazar and Frentress could run for mayor. Trustee Joe Schminkey, who is up for re-election, said Tuesday that he has not decided whether to run again.

With the town losing as many as four experienced officials, Martin hopes the people who come forward to run for the seats are familiar with the town's comprehensive plan and code updates.

Interested candidates need to collect 10 signatures from registered voters who live within town limits and return the petitions by 5 p.m. March 3. The election is April 4.

Qualified candidates must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old, residents of Hayden for at least 12 consecutive months before Election Day and registered voters. Residency must be maintained throughout the term in office. For more information, call Hayden Town Clerk Lisa Dowling at 276-3741.

-- To reach Matt Stensland, call 871-4204

or e-mail mstensland@steamboatpilot.com.