It was a short break from civic duty for Steve Primiano.

The longtime Barrington resident ended his service on the Barrington Town Council in November, but was appointed to the town's Committee on Appropriations on Monday, Jan. 7. 

Mr. Primiano has been involved with various organizations in Barrington over the years, and for the last four years, he was a member of the Barrington Town Council. His tenure on the council ended in November when his bid for re-election fell short of the necessary votes. 

Some town officials believed Mr. Primiano might run in the upcoming special election for an open council seat, but the Republican decided against that move. 

During an interview in November, Mr. Primiano said "I have no interest in a two-year term. It's like being a lame duck. I need to step back."

Mr. Primiano spent a few weeks considering what his next step would be, and eventually decided to apply for the town's Committee on Appropriations. He said he had been approached by the chairman of the committee, Richard Staples.

"… he told me that he wanted me to apply," said Mr. Primiano, adding that he and Mr. Staples have been friends for many years. 

After some consideration, Mr. Primiano agreed to apply. On Monday night, Jan. 7, the council voted unanimously to appoint the former councilor to the COA. In fact, council member Kate Weymouth "enthusiastically" seconded the motion made by Jacob Brier. Council president Michael Carroll added "Thank you very much for your continued service."

Mr. Primiano said he is excited to begin his work on the committee on appropriations, which is tasked with reviewing the municipal and school department budgets. Mr. Primiano said he has plenty of experience working with the budget — he has served on the budget forecast committee and also worked with the budget while serving as a councilor. 

"I know the budget, I know the process," he said, adding "I have a perspective that's different from anyone else on the committee."

Mr. Primiano is the lone Republican on appropriations. Mr. Staples, Josh Berlinsky, Cynthia Rosengard and Per Vaage are Democrats. 

Mr. Primiano said he hopes to help Barrington maintain its strong fiscal position, "funding programs that should be funded."

Mr. Primiano filled the seat on the COA that was made vacant when Trisha Marlar resigned. 

"I'm excited," Mr. Primiano said, of his upcoming work on the COA. "I think this is good for me."

The first committee on appropriations meeting is set for Tuesday, Jan. 29.