Town Manager Paul Bockelman announced the appointment of Shavena Martin as the new Town Clerk for Amherst. The appointment is subject to review by the Town Council.
Shavena Martin has been working as an Election Specialist in the City of Springfield for the past six years. Ms. Martin brings significant experience working elections in Springfield, which has a Council form of government with both at-large and ward councilors. She has recruited, trained, and supervised hundreds of election workers. Much of her work has been to promote civic engagement and outreach to encourage people to participate in the electoral process. In addition, Shavena plays a pivotal role in the City’s Complete Count Committee for the 2020 U.S. Census.
Town Manager Bockelman said, “Ms. Martin’s experience in a city form of government, elections and the Census will help her address the most important challenges facing the Town Clerk’s office in the coming years. These include the design and implementation of ranked-choice voting, standardizing protocols for local elections, and contributing to the ongoing community outreach efforts for the 2020 census.”
Ms. Martin added, “"It is an honor to have been selected as the next Town Clerk of Amherst. While it is bittersweet to step away from my role as Election Specialist, I plan on bringing the skills and experience I have gained in Springfield to serve the people of Amherst with excellence. I look forward to hitting the ground running with a focus on building partnerships to implement the 2020 Census and the upcoming federal elections."
Bockelman concluded, “Ms. Martin impressed all who interviewed her with her positive presence and commitment to engaging the public on a daily basis. I think she will be a strong addition to the Town Hall team.”
Town Manager Paul Bockelman has now referred his appointment to the Town Council, as required by the Amherst Town Charter.