ATKINSON — The race is back on for selectman.

Valerie Tobin has decided to run a write-in campaign to challenge Bill Bennett for the one vacant seat on the Board of Selectmen.

The only other candidate for the seat, Leon Artus, initially signed up to run, but then asked selectmen to remove his name from the ballot. But Town Clerk Rose Cavalear said legally, Artus' name must appear on the ballot.

Artus has since refused to say if he is still actively seeking the seat, which carries a three-year term. A frequent critic of town government, he is one of several residents suing the town over alleged violations of civil rights.

After the news that Artus was dropping out of the race, Tobin said she was contacted by many residents asking her to consider a run because they wanted options.

"Even though a write-in candidacy is more difficult, they felt I had the right message," Tobin said.

Part of that message is that she wants to keep a close eye on town spending. Tobin said she wants to evaluate all town departments in light of the tough economy to explore areas where spending can be cut. She didn't single out any departments that might be overspending, but said everyone needs to "run a tight ship with no waste.

"Our budgets are a very important issue," Tobin said.SClBThe town's information technology also needs to be updated, she said.

Tobin said she would like to see the town's Web site updated with tax and assessment records, and also make sure the town's important documents are safe.

"We've got to be brought into the 21st century," she said.

This will be Tobin's third attempt to win a seat on the board. Last year, she lost by 37 votes to Selectman Bill Friel, and she lost to Fred Childs by more than 300 votes in 2007.SClBBennett said he had yet to hear from Tobin that she was officially in the running, but said he would take her candidacy seriously.

Tobin plans to formally announce her candidacy at candidates night on Thursday and make herself available to residents to ask questions. She will also be spreading the news over the next couple of weeks through signs and mailers.

Candidates night will be held at the Town Hall at 7 p.m.

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