VASSALBORO — The Board of Selectmen voted on Sept. 27 to hold a special election on Election Day, Nov. 7, to fill the selectman’s seat that belonged to Phil Haines, who had served the town as one of three selectmen for a total of 16 years.

Haines, 72, died Sept. 23 at Maine General Medical Center in Augusta.

Haines was remembered as a dedicated leader in public health and a devoted community member in his obituary. He had served as selectman most recently since 2009.

“He was definitely a public servant. He did a tremendous job,” Town Manager Mary Sabins said. “He was well-thought-of and well-liked in the community. He’s certainly going to be missed.”

The remainder of Haines’ term runs until June 2018. At that point, the seat once again will be up for election, for the full three-year term.

Nomination papers are available at the Town Office until Oct. 12. Candidates need at least 25 signatures from registered Vassalboro voters and a maximum of 100. The signed papers are due back to the town clerk by 6:30 p.m. Oct. 12.

As of Tuesday, two people had taken out nomination papers, according to Town Manager Mary Sabins.

Those with questions about the process can call Town Clerk Cathy Coyne at 872-2826.

Madeline St. Amour — 861-9239

mstamour@centralmaine.com

Twitter: @madelinestamour