MATTAPOISETT — A special Town Election will be held on July 27 to fill the Select Board position left by the death of John DeCosta last month.

DeCosta’s term would have ended on Town Election day in 2023. The winner of the July 27 election will serve the rest of that term.

“Having, a year ago, operated with two members on the board for six months … it’s absolutely something that has to be done,” Board Chair Paul Silva said.

Silva’s position on the board is up for election in the May 18 Town Election, for which he has chosen not to run for reelection.

Nomination papers will become available on May 21, and must be filed with the Board of Registrars by June 8. Then, then, candidates must return their nomination papers to the town clerk’s office by 5 p.m. on June 27.

“I think it’s plenty of time,” Town Clerk Catherine Hueberger said. “They only have to gather 37 signatures.”

The last day to object or withdraw from the election is June 24, and the final day to register to vote for the election is July 7.