Mark Maxim, incumbent candidate in the Onset Board of Water Commissioners race,  has chosen to withdraw his name from the ballot due to family health concerns.

His granddaughter was recently diagnosed with leukemia and spending time with his family will be his main focus, he said.

Former Selectman Brenda Eckstrom is now running unopposed for a seat on the Onset Board of Water Commissioners.

Also on the ballot for the Onset Fire District election is one three-year term on the Board of Water Commissioners, one three-year term on the Prudential Committee, and a single one-year term position for Moderator.

Prudential Committee incumbent Jovina Dean is running unopposed. No candidates returned nomination papers for the vacant Moderator position.

The Onset Fire District will hold its annual election on Tuesday, May 17 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Dudley L. Brown VFW Post, 4 Gibbs Ball Park Road, Onset.

But before you head to the polls, here is a summary of candidate's backgrounds to get you acquainted with the hopefuls.

Brenda Eckstrom

Former Selectman Brenda Eckstrom is vying for the open seat on the Onset Fire District's Board of Water Commissioners.

Although this is her first time running for a position in Onset Fire District, she said her 6 years serving as a Selectman taught her about the issues facing the district.

Eckstrom said an increase in water rates has been a point of concern.

“When people are struggling [increasing water rates] is a cause for concern,” she said.

Eckstrom said as a Water Commissioner she would support keeping the district a separate entity from the town.

“They face separate issues and should stay separate,” she added.

Jovina Dean

Prudential Committee incumbent Jovina Dean is running for her eighth consecutive term on the committee.

“I love the district,” Dean said. “I like to serve the people. Onset is my heart.”

Dean has spent 21 years as a committee member and said she is proud of the work the group has completed.

In addition to serving on the Prudential Committee, Dean is a long-time member of the Onset Bay Association.

Annual meeting

The Onset Fire District will host its annual meeting on Monday, May 16 at 7:30 p.m. at the Dudley L. Brown VFW Post in Onset.

In addition to routine housekeeping articles, the warrant includes requests for funds to be used for fire alarm system and communication equipment upgrades, requests to accept a donation of a Privateer boat, forcible entry tools, and other items donated to the Onset Fire Department, and a petitioner's request to purchase a mid-sized SUV to be used by the Fire Chief. The SUV would replace a 2003 Crown Victoria that is currently in need of major repairs.