Town Meeting Warrants

A warrant is a document issued by the Board of Selectmen to call a town meeting.

Warrants essentially list an agenda of items called articles to be voted on by those present. Items on the agenda can vary significantly, from the annual operating budget of the town to adjustment of by-laws.

Adding Articles to Warrant

In Massachusetts, residents may place articles on the warrant without approval of the Selectmen by petitioning to insert the article. Petitions to insert an article on the warrant for an Annual Town Meeting require ten signatures of eligible Dover voters. Petitions to insert an article on the warrant for a Special Town Meeting require 100 signatures or the signatures of 10% of the registered voters in the town, whichever is less. 

The Warrant for the Annual Town Meeting is usually open for acceptance of articles in early December and closes in late January. Please call the Selectmen’s Office at 508-785-0032, ext. 221 for more information.