Fleming is examining the possibility of placing a measure onto the November ballot that proposes to lengthen the term of all of the town's two-year positions to four years.

The town board will hold a public hearing on the matter at 7 p.m. July 28, in the town hall, 2433 Dublin Hill Road.

Town Supervisor Gary Searing said part of the reason for the proposed change is that it will allow elected officials to endure media scrutiny.

Searing, whose position would be lengthened under the proposal, in addition to the town clerk's and highway superintendent's, also said it would save money.

But the town's elections are already staggered, and lengthening the terms of the three positions would not reduce the number or the cost of those elections, Searing admitted.

When asked for clarification on the proposal, Searing said voting on the issue was not important or newsworthy. He then hung up the phone.

Board member Art Fritz said that by lengthening the positions, the town could make it easier for its officials to carry out long-term projects because they wouldn't have to worry about re-election every two years.

But the hearing will give the public a chance to voice any concerns or ask questions, Fritz said. One concern that could come up is why officials, such as Searing, have to worry about two-year re-election campaigns if they are fulfilling their responsibilities.

The town's board members will not be affected by the proposed law because they already serve four-years terms, Fritz said.

Many towns across the state have already lengthened their officials' terms by changing local laws.