Somerset opens nominations for May 12 election; petition process and eligibility explained

The Somerset Town Council opened nominations for the May 12 municipal election during its March 2 meeting, and James Barry, chair of the Somerset Board of Supervisors of Elections, outlined eligibility and petition procedures.

Barry said the election will fill the offices of mayor and two council seats for two‑year terms and reminded the council that candidates must be U.S. citizens, have lived in town at least 18 months before the election and be qualified voters of Somerset and Maryland. He also explained that additional candidates may be nominated by petition with at least 20 signatures delivered to the town manager within two weeks.

Council members nominated several individuals on the floor. Council member Debbie Heller nominated Rohit (name recorded in the transcript as “Rohit Hanna” and later referenced as “Rohit Khanna”), who accepted the nomination. Shannon Roback nominated Erlinda Dorey and Brett Guiley for two council seats; both were presented and accepted or indicated acceptance on the record. Heller also nominated Robin Barr and Kumar Vasami for council; Vasami was not present, and council members and Board of Elections staff noted that a petition may be required if a nominee cannot accept at the meeting.

Barry said the Board of Supervisors of Elections will vet nominees and will announce the final list of candidates 15 days from the meeting; petition deadlines and filing instructions were reiterated for residents who wish to nominate additional candidates.