The information contained in this article is not intended as legal advice and may no longer be accurate due to changes in the law. Consult NHMA's legal services or your municipal attorney.
Your NHCTCA has been very busy this winter reviewing and speaking on bills and legislation which will affect our towns and cities throughout the state we love. On February 13th, we sponsored a Legislative Meet and Greet Dessert and Coffee event at our State Capitol. Each year we invite all legislatures, our State
Representatives and State Senators, to stop by and meet their Town and City Clerks. Each year this event keeps getting larger and it is an opportunity for the sharing of ideas and concerns. Special Thanks to Virginia Drew for an informative tour of our New Hampshire State House, which was enjoyed by all that attended.
Town Clerks need your help to encourage all Voters to not only come out to VOTE in our Presidential Elections but also in our Town and City Elections too. On average only about 20 percent of voters vote in their town elections, 50 percent vote in our state elections yet over 80 percent come out to vote in our Federal elections. Town and City elections affect our daily lives and those of our families and friends. Every VOTE is so important!
Dog Registration Month is April, but our state offers all dog owners the month of May as a grace month. This means that owners can still register their dog
with their town or city without fines and penalties by May 31st. Dog Registrations are required by law in New Hampshire. RSA 466:1 states that all dogs over 4 months of age must be registered, and a valid rabies certificate is required. This is for everyone’s protection. Also, if a dog is lost your Clerk’s office may be able to help locate your dog. As of June 1st, of each year, RS 466:13 requires that all owners of unregistered dogs must be issued a Civil Forfeiture fine of $25 and an additional $1 charge for each month they are late in registering their dog.
May 4th – May 10th is the 56th Annual Municipal Clerks Week Please recognize the vital role that is filled by each and every Town and City Clerk throughout our Great State. “This annual observance offers a special opportunity to recognize and honor the critical role municipal clerks play in our communities. They are essential in ensuring transparency, efficiency, and the smooth operation of local government.” Elections, Car Registrations, Vital Records, Record Keeping, Dog Registrations, taxes, fees, and other revenue collection is processed through their office. It’s a huge responsibility and they are honored to serve. Your Town and City Clerks are often known as the heart of their communities.
