Elected and Appointed Positions
Find your role in strengthening your community.
Your community needs leaders and volunteers like you. Whether you run for office or serve on an appointed board, your participation matters. Explore the list of elected and appointed positions below to find out how you can get started:
Potential Elected Office Types
-
State Representative
Constituency: Represents a specific district (often a town or group of towns) in the state.
Term Length: 2 years
Responsibilities: Serves in the New Hampshire House of Representatives, introduces and votes on state legislation, helps shape the state budget, and advocates for local constituent concerns.
State Senator
Constituency: Represents a larger state Senate district, typically encompassing several towns or cities.
Term Length: 2 years
Responsibilities: Serves in the New Hampshire Senate, drafts and votes on state laws, works on the state budget, and addresses district-wide issues and concerns.
County Commissioner
Constituency: Represents a county district; counties are divided into commissioner districts.
Term Length: 2 or 4 years (varies by county)
Responsibilities: Oversees county government operations, including budgets, county facilities, and key services such as corrections and nursing homes. Manages county finances and administrative policies.
County Attorney
Constituency: Elected countywide
Term Length: 2 or 4 years (varies by county)
Responsibilities: Acts as the chief prosecutor for the county, bringing criminal cases to the Superior Court. Advises law enforcement and county officials on legal matters.
County Sheriff
Constituency: Elected countywide
Term Length: 2 or 4 years (varies by county)
Responsibilities: Serves as the chief law enforcement officer for the county. Operates the county jail, serves legal documents, provides court security, and assists local and state police as needed.
County Treasurer
Constituency: Elected countywide
Term Length: 2 or 4 years (varies by county)
Responsibilities: Manages county funds, receives, invests, and disburses money, and ensures all financial transactions comply with regulations. Prepares financial reports for the county.
Register of Deeds
Constituency: Elected countywide
Term Length: 2 or 4 years (varies by county)
Responsibilities: Records, preserves, and provides public access to property records and land transactions within the county. Ensures the integrity of property ownership documentation.
Register of Probate
Constituency: Elected countywide
Term Length: 2 or 4 years (varies by county)
Responsibilities: Maintains records related to probate court cases, including wills, estates, and guardianships. Ensures accurate documentation and access for legal proceedings.
Executive Council
Constituency: Each of the five councilors represents an Executive Council district covering multiple counties.
Term Length: 2 years
Responsibilities: Approves state contracts, appointments, and spending. Works alongside the Governor to provide oversight and a check on executive authority.
Governor
Constituency: Elected statewide
Term Length: 2 years
Responsibilities: Serves as the chief executive officer of New Hampshire. Implements state laws, oversees executive agencies, prepares the state budget, appoints officials, and can veto legislation.
-
City Council/Board of Aldermen Nashua and Manchester have a Board of Aldermen, while every other city in New Hampshire has a City Council
Constituency: Mixed, most City Councilors/Aldermen are elected to represent a specific ward in their community, while others are elected at-large.
Term Length: Varies, either 2 or 4 years
Responsibilities: The City Council/Board of Aldermen serves as the city's chief legislative body. They develop policies, enact laws, and write the city budget. City Councilors/Aldermen also approve nominations to city boards and, in select cities, appoint a City Manager. They also serve on committees, oftentimes finance, budget, and public safety committees, and on special task forces on issues including economic development and homelessness.
School Board
Constituency: Varies by municipality; some school boards are elected entirely at-large, while others are ward/neighborhood-specific
Term Length: Varies by municipality, ranging from 2 to 4 years. In some municipalities, elections are staggered so not all board seats are up for election at a given time.
Responsibilities: School Boards set education policy in their communities. They oversee curriculum, assessment materials and strategies, and establish the school district’s operating budget. School Boards also oversee hiring, appoint a superintendent, and negotiate union contracts.
Moderator, Ward Clerk, Ward Selectmen, and Supervisors of the Checklist/Registrar
Constituency: Ward-specific
Term Length: 2 years, 5 or 6 years if serving as a Supervisor of the Checklist/Registrar
Responsibilities: These roles oversee elections at the ward level; responsibilities may vary by city.
Moderators supervise other ward election officials and ensure that everything runs smoothly on election day. They have a range of responsibilities, including inspecting the checklists and voting devices, receiving absentee ballots, and processing and reporting vote counts.
Ward Clerk’s primary responsibility is to administer and prepare the documentation required at the polling place.
Selectmen help maintain the checklist and support voters in the election process.
Some, but not all, also elect Supervisors of the Checklists/Registrars, who maintain and update the voter checklist and are present at the polling place on election day.
Police Commission/Fire Commission
Constituency: Varies by city, some are at-large, while others are ward/neighborhood-specific
Term Length: Varies by city, 2, 3, or 4 years
Responsibilities: The Police Commission provides civilian oversight for city police departments. They often work with the Chief of Police to set departmental policies and, in some municipalities, also play a role in hiring and contract negotiations. While the Police Commission is an elected office in several cities, in other communities it is an appointed position. The Fire Commission acts in the same manner and oversees the city's fire department.
-
Select Board / Town Council
Constituency: Townwide; members are elected at-large by all eligible voters in the town.
Term Length: Typically 3 years, with staggered terms; most boards have 3–5 members.
Responsibilities: Enacts town policies, develops the town budget, oversees town personnel, communicates with department heads, and represents the board on committees such as the Budget Committee and Planning Board.
School Board
Constituency: School district or municipality; members are elected by residents within the school district.
Term Length: Usually 3 years, but may vary (some seats may be 1 or 2 years depending on the community).
Responsibilities: Sets education policies, develops the school district budget, hires and oversees the superintendent, negotiates contracts, and engages the public.
Budget Committee
Constituency: Townwide or school districtwide; may be elected by voters or appointed, depending on local rules.
Term Length: Varies by community (often 3 years, staggered).
Responsibilities: Reviews, adjusts, and recommends the town or school district budget, and presents budget proposals and related policies to voters.
Planning Board / Zoning Board
Constituency: Townwide- some communities elect these positions, others appoint.
Term Length: Varies by community (commonly 3 years, staggered).
Responsibilities: Creates, implements, and enforces land use goals; reviews and approves development proposals; oversees zoning regulations and ensures responsible community growth.
Library Trustee
Constituency: Townwide; trustees are elected by local voters.
Term Length: Typically 3 years, staggered.
Responsibilities: Serves as the governing body for the public library, oversees the budget, staff, building use, and library materials, and sets library policy.
Town Moderator
Constituency: Townwide; elected by all eligible voters in the town.
Term Length: 2 years
Responsibilities: Presides over town meetings and elections, sets meeting procedures, rules on questions of order, and publicly declares election and meeting results.
Supervisor of the Checklist
Constituency: Townwide; most towns elect 3 supervisors.
Term Length: 6 years, staggered so one is elected every two years.
Responsibilities: Maintains the official list of eligible voters, updates voter lists before elections, corrects names and addresses, and processes party registration changes.
Potential Appointed Office Types
-
Commissioner of Education
Purpose: Oversee New Hampshire’s public education system and implement state education policy.
Responsibilities: Lead the Department of Education, allocate funding, set standards, support school districts, and ensure compliance with state and federal laws.
Qualifications: Typically extensive experience in education administration and leadership; appointed by the Governor and Executive Council.
Commissioner of Health and Human Services
Purpose: Direct and manage statewide public health and social service programs.
Responsibilities: Administer Medicaid, public health, child and family services, mental health, and welfare programs; oversee large staff and budgets.
Qualifications: Significant background in health, human services, or public administration; appointed by the Governor and Executive Council.
Commissioner of Safety
Purpose: Ensure public safety and security statewide.
Responsibilities: Oversee state police, fire safety, emergency communications, and homeland security operations and policy.
Qualifications: Experience in law enforcement, emergency management, or public administration; appointed by the Governor and Executive Council.
Commissioner of Environmental Services
Purpose: Protect and manage New Hampshire’s natural resources.
Responsibilities: Enforce environmental laws, oversee air and water quality, and manage waste and conservation initiatives.
Qualifications: Experience in environmental science, public policy, or administration; appointed by the Governor and Executive Council.
Attorney General
Purpose: Serve as the state’s chief legal officer.
Responsibilities: Represent the state in legal matters, oversee criminal prosecutions, advise state agencies, and enforce state laws.
Qualifications: Law degree and significant legal experience; appointed by the Governor and Executive Council.
Adjutant General
Purpose: Lead the New Hampshire National Guard and military affairs.
Responsibilities: Manage National Guard operations, readiness, and emergency response; advise the Governor on military issues.
Qualifications: Senior military experience; appointed by the Governor and Executive Council.
State Fire Marshal
Purpose: Promote fire safety and prevention statewide.
Responsibilities: Enforce fire codes, investigate fires, conduct inspections, and educate the public.
Qualifications: Background in fire safety, firefighting, or code enforcement; appointed by the Governor and Executive Council.
State Veterinarian
Purpose: Protect animal health and prevent disease outbreaks.
Responsibilities: Oversee livestock and companion animal health, respond to disease outbreaks, and regulate animal health practices.
Qualifications: Veterinary degree and experience; appointed by the Commissioner of Agriculture.
State Epidemiologist
Purpose: Monitor and address public health threats.
Responsibilities: Lead disease surveillance, investigate outbreaks, and provide guidance for prevention and response.
Qualifications: Advanced degree in public health or epidemiology; appointed by the Commissioner of Health and Human Services.
Banking Commissioner
Purpose: Regulate and supervise state-chartered financial institutions.
Responsibilities: Enforce banking laws, oversee banks and credit unions, promote financial system stability.
Qualifications: Experience in banking or finance; appointed by the Governor and Executive Council.
Insurance Commissioner
Purpose: Regulate the insurance industry in New Hampshire.
Responsibilities: Ensure compliance with insurance laws, protect consumers, and oversee licensing and solvency.
Qualifications: Experience in insurance or financial regulation; appointed by the Governor and Executive Council.
Labor Commissioner
Purpose: Oversee labor laws and workplace standards.
Responsibilities: Administer labor laws, enforce safety and wage regulations, mediate disputes, and oversee unemployment programs.
Qualifications: Experience in labor relations or public administration; appointed by the Governor and Executive Council.
Agriculture Commissioner
Purpose: Support agriculture and regulate agricultural practices.
Responsibilities: Lead the Department of Agriculture, enforce regulations, promote local food, and support farmers.
Qualifications: Background in agriculture or related fields; appointed by the Governor and Executive Council.
Public Utilities Commissioners
Purpose: Regulate utilities to ensure fair and reliable service.
Responsibilities: Set rates, oversee electric, gas, water, and telecom utilities, enforce compliance.
Qualifications: Experience in law, public policy, or utilities; appointed by the Governor and Executive Council.
Liquor Commission Members
Purpose: Oversee alcohol sales and distribution in the state.
Responsibilities: Set policies for state liquor stores, manage operations, and ensure legal compliance.
Qualifications: Business or public administration experience; appointed by the Governor and Executive Council.
Lottery Commission Members
Purpose: Manage and regulate the state lottery.
Responsibilities: Approve new games, oversee operations, and ensure fair play and revenue management.
Qualifications: Experience in gaming, business, or public administration; appointed by the Governor and Executive Council.
Fish and Game Executive Director
Purpose: Conserve wildlife and manage outdoor recreation resources.
Responsibilities: Oversee hunting, fishing, wildlife conservation, and enforcement of related laws.
Qualifications: Experience in wildlife management or natural resources; appointed by the Fish and Game Commission.
Executive Directors of Boards (e.g., Board of Medicine, Board of Nursing)
Purpose: Administer operations for professional licensing boards.
Responsibilities: Enforce standards, oversee licensing and discipline, and manage board activities.
Qualifications: Relevant professional or administrative experience; appointed by the board or the Governor.
Chief Medical Examiner
Purpose: Investigate deaths and determine causes.
Responsibilities: Perform autopsies, certify causes of death, and provide reports for legal and health purposes.
Qualifications: Medical degree and forensic pathology experience; appointed by the Governor and Executive Council.
Chief Information Officer
Purpose: Oversee state IT infrastructure and security.
Responsibilities: Implement technology strategies, manage IT resources, and ensure cybersecurity for state agencies.
Qualifications: IT and management experience; appointed by the Governor and Executive Council.
Director of Homeland Security and Emergency Management
Purpose: Coordinate emergency preparedness and response.
Responsibilities: Lead disaster response, develop security strategies, and coordinate with federal and local agencies.
Qualifications: Background in emergency management or security; appointed by the Commissioner of Safety.
Director of Motor Vehicles
Purpose: Oversee vehicle registration and licensing.
Responsibilities: Manage DMV operations, issue licenses and registrations, and ensure traffic law compliance.
Qualifications: Public administration or transportation experience; appointed by the Commissioner of Safety.
State Librarian
Purpose: Lead and promote library services statewide.
Responsibilities: Oversee the State Library, support local libraries, and expand access to information and literacy.
Qualifications: Library science degree and management experience; appointed by the Governor and Executive Council.
Members of the University System Board of Trustees
Purpose: Govern the University System of New Hampshire.
Responsibilities: Set policy, oversee budgets, programs, and presidential appointments.
Qualifications: Experience in higher education, business, or public service; appointed by the Governor and Executive Council.
Members of State Boards and Commissions
Purpose: Provide oversight and guidance for state programs and professions.
Responsibilities: Vary by board—may include licensing, regulation, program management, or policy development.
Qualifications: Often require expertise or experience in the relevant field; appointed by the Governor and Executive Council.
Judicial Nominating Commission Members
Purpose: Recommend qualified candidates for judicial appointments.
Responsibilities: Screen applicants, conduct interviews, and submit recommendations to the Governor.
Qualifications: Legal or judicial experience often preferred; appointed by the Governor.
Assistant Attorneys General
Purpose: Support the Attorney General’s legal work.
Responsibilities: Prosecute cases, advise state agencies, and represent the state in court.
Qualifications: Law degree and legal experience; appointed by the Attorney General.
Deputy Commissioners
Purpose: Assist department commissioners in managing operations.
Responsibilities: Oversee programs, implement policies, and act on behalf of the commissioner as needed.
Qualifications: Experience in public administration or a relevant field; appointed by the commissioner or the Governor.
-
Arts and Culture Commission
Purpose: Promote and support all types of arts and culture in their communities.
Responsibilities: Collaborate with elected officials and the artistic community to coordinate events and educational opportunities.
Qualifications: Some municipalities require that members be actively engaged in the arts community.
Board of Health Advisory Committee
Purpose: Set public health policy in their community.
Responsibilities: Establish rules and regulations relating to the sanitation of public buildings and buildings with a connection to public sewers.
Qualifications: Members are typically required to come from medical professions.
Budget Committee
Purpose: Review and/or put forth the city budget.
Responsibilities: A city’s Budget Committee’s authority varies by city. An Advisory Budget Committee advises the City Council on the budget by reviewing departmental expenses and revenues before the final budget is put forward to the city by the Council. A traditional Budget Committee receives the proposed budget from the City Council and then deliberates and submits the final budget for approval by the voters.
Conservation Commission
Purpose: Protect, promote, and ensure the proper utilization of natural resources in their communities.
Responsibilities: Advise the City Council on the environmental impact of new developments, put forward plans for conservation.
Energy Committee
Purpose: Promote sustainability by encouraging the reduced and efficient use of energy.
Responsibilities: Present elected officials with plans to explore alternative energy usage and reduce pollution. These plans are designed with long-term cost-saving measures and environmental impact in mind.
Human Rights/Relations Committee
Purpose: Promote diversity and inclusion in their communities.
Responsibilities: Strive to make their communities more welcoming spaces by combating prejudice and hosting programming celebrating multiculturalism.
Heritage/Historic District Commission
Purpose: Safeguard and promote the historic legacy of their communities.
Responsibilities: Oversee the preservation and rehabilitation of buildings, monuments, and documents of historic, community, and aesthetic value.
Library Trustees
Purpose: Manage their community’s public libraries.
Responsibilities: Oversee funding, the maintenance of library property, and hiring.
Parks and Recreation Commission
Purpose: Oversee the management, improvement, and care of their community’s public parks.
Responsibilities: Develop recreational programs for the enjoyment of their neighbors and advise elected officials on the acquisition of additional park land.
Planning Boards
Purpose: Formulate and oversee a “Master Plan” for their community’s economic development.
Responsibilities: Planning Boards create and adopt a “Master Plan”, which serves as the legal building block for all land use regulations in their community. They also maintain a map of the municipality and set zoning rules and regulations. Planning Boards hear proposals for development, host community forums, and grant permits for construction.
Trustees of the Trust Funds
Purpose: Trustees of the Trust Funds are the custodians of a municipality’s trust funds, including park funds, scholarship funds, school funds, memorial funds, and library funds.
Responsibilities: Trustees of the Trust Funds oversee the disbursement of trust funds and make investment decisions for their community.
Zoning Board of Adjustment:
Purpose: Zoning Boards review applications for variations in land-use regulations and have the power to grant special exemptions.
Responsibilities: Zoning Boards review variance applications and special exceptions, and hear appeals from administrative officials.