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Town Clerk/Treasurer - Frequently Asked Questions
V. Jean Kopke, Town Clerk/Treasurer
Carla Mazgelis, Asst. Town Clerk/Treasurer
Sally Theil, Senior Clerk
Town Hall
65 East Main St.
Avon, MA 02322
Phone: 508-588-0414
Fax: 508-559-0209
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do you have my birth death or marriage record on file?
A birth certificate will be in our office if the parents resided in Avon at the time of the birth. A marriage certificate is on file only if the intention was filed in the town, irregardless of where the marriage took place or where you lived at the time of your marriage. A death certificate is on file if the death occurred in Avon or if the deceased residence was Avon at the time of death.
How do I apply for a marriage license?
Both parties involved must apply in person for a marriage license. The license is valid for any marriage occurring in Massachusetts and can be applied for in any town hall in Massachusetts. Once the intention is filed it is in effect for 60 days. If the marriage does not take place within the time period, a new intention must be filed. There is a three day waiting period from the time the intention is filed until the license in issued. While both parties must be present to file the intention the license can be picked up by either party. After the marriage takes place the officiate will complete the license and return the form to the town hall. We then file the marriage with the State and a certified copy may be issued.
When do I need a business certificate?
A business certificate is required when you conduct a business under a name other than your own. The certificate should be issued from the Town where you conduct your business, even if that address is only a post office box.
When are dog licenses due?
Dog licenses are due January 1st each year. All dogs not registered by May 31st of each year will be fined an additional $25.00 Proof of current rabies and proof of neutering or spaying( if applicable) are required before the license can be issued
Why do I need to answer my census each year?
The Town of Avon sends out an annual census in January of each year. Your response to the Annual Census is important. The census data is used by the school department to verify residency and project class sizes. Our public safety departments use this information when providing critical services to the residents. Also many state and federal government agencies depend upon this data in determining funding for our schools, roads, and eligibility for important grants, all which affects our local tax rate.
Can I register to vote when answering my census?
You cannot register to vote on your census, however if you are a registered voter and do not answer the census, every voter in your family will be made an inactive voter and will not be allowed to vote until they visit the clerks office to fill out necessary paperwork. You can register to vote by mail or in person at any Town hall in Massachusetts. You can also register to vote at the Registry of Motor Vehicles.
Why would I need a Special Permit or a Variance?
A Special Permit or a Variance may be necessary if you attempt to make alterations, build, or conduct a business that is not in compliance with the current zoning by-laws. The Building Inspector (Zoning Officer) will issue a letter detailing the zoning by-law which you need relief from. There is a form which needs to be filed with the Town Clerk along with a copy of this letter and a check for $200.00. This will allow the process to begin and a hearing will be set with the Board of Appeals who will make the decision on whether or not to allow the Variance or Special Permit. After the hearing, if approved, there is a 20 day waiting period to allow for a court appeal to be filed if any objecting party so desires. At the end of this period, if no court appeal has been filed, a letter will be issued from the Town Clerk indicating that no appeal has been filed and this can be filed along with the appropriate paperwork with the Registry of Deeds in Dedham.
How do I know when there is going to be a Town Meeting or Election?
By Town by-law the Annual Town Election is held on the second Tuesday in April and the Annual Town Meeting is held on the first Tuesday in May. If there is a Special Town Meeting or a Special Town Election being held a warrant is produced and distributed to seven public places in town. A notice is put in the Avon Messenger and the Brockton Enterprise. A notice is posted on our local Cable Station and also on our Website.
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