ATHOL – Katalin Krieger is one of four people currently in the race to fill two seats on Athol’s Selectboard.

This is the first time the 40-year-old Wilson Avenue resident has run for an elected office. She serves on the town’s Energy Committee and is an associate member of the Zoning Board of Appeals, both of which are appointed positions. She has a 14-year-old son and an 11-year-old daughter, both of whom are enrolled in the Athol Royalston Regional School District.

The Westminster native recently received her bachelor’s degree from Southern New Hampshire University, where she majored in healthcare administration and works in the field of non-profit healthcare. She is a member of the Franklin County Department of Transitional Assistance Advisory Committee. 

“I am really excited about the opportunity to work with the town leaders who are already working to strengthen our community and to be a part of those decisions,” she said. “I really want to participate in town politics and help steer the direction of our town. I think it’s a nice way to give back to the community. I’ve recently started with the Energy Committee and the Zoning Board, and I have enjoyed that so very much.”

Krieger said being the head of a single-income household certainly informs her approach to town government.

“One of the things I think is really important is that we find ways to keep the budget manageable while not reducing services and not taking away from the resources that the community needs,” she said. “What I love about Athol is its small-town feel. But I know that there are a lot of things going on, so finding ways to manage that and keep the town successful is something I’m really invested in.”

Krieger said one issue in particular was raised by residents as she sought signatures for her nomination papers.

“I know that the high school is a hot-ticket item – the proposal for the new high school,” she said. “I’m just trying to listen to people and understand how they feel about whether or not now is the time for that. My thoughts are that we really need to look at the growth potential for the town and what that would mean for a new high school.”

Speaking with residents, friends, and co-workers, said Krieger, “Housing is a major issue. It’s not just affecting our town, it’s everywhere. The cost of housing is out of sight, and I think it puts most residents in a position where it’s almost unaffordable. It’s really hard for people right now, and it’s something we really have to think about.

“And then there’s the overwhelming need for housing. That’s the other thing. There are some many people in need of a home and it’s difficult right now, I know, for people to find housing.”

Krieger stressed that she isn’t running for Selectboard to promote a specific program, preferring instead to keep an open mind on how best to address the issues faced by Athol.

Krieger said she does enjoy campaigning for the board.

“I am trying to have conversations with folks every day. I’ve been out talking with people,” she said.

Athol’s Town Election will take place on Monday, April 7. Balloting will take place between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. at Town Hall. Other than the race for Selectboard, there are no other contests on the ballot.

Greg Vine can be reached at gvineadn@gmail.com.