Town Clerk

Mission Statement

To be a reliable provider of information and quality services to the community and its residents and to work cooperatively with all departments, boards and committees while complying with Federal, State and Local laws as well as the Town Home Rule Charter. We are dedicated to the preservation of all the Town of Reading's past, present and future documents and vital records for the benefit of all residents and future generations. We respect the right to vote and will assure that all elections are conducted in a fair and open manner providing equal access to all citizens.

History of the Town Clerk

The position of Town Clerk has an ancient and honorable history. In biblical times town clerks were scribes or scholars, learned men who were among the few people who could read and write. Their writings became the historical record of the times.

The position has since evolved to include many duties now mandated by law, and many others established by tradition in the community. Functions of the office vary with the size of the community and whether the Town Clerk is a full or part-time position.

In some communities, the Town Clerk may also be the Finance Officer, Tax Collector, Treasurer, or Town Manager. In Massachusetts, most Town Clerks are elected to office; in some communities, they are appointed by the Select Board or the Town Manager.

Town Clerks are committed to work beyond the scope of the mandates and customs of their communities and serve the citizens as the focal point of town government.

Town Clerks of Reading