The Planning Board race in Mattapoisett is shaping up as Paul Osenkowski and Mary Crain, who was appointed to fill a vacancy on the board last summer, have put their names in the running for the single open seat.

Crain is looking to hold onto her position on the board. The Selectmen appointed Crain to take over Bob McNemara’s seat after he stepped down last summer.

Crain came to the position after working as a town planner for 14 years.

Crain, who moved to Mattapoisett approximately four years ago, said she wants to maintain a balance between conservation and development.

“You don’t want to overbuild a community, but to allow a healthy, reasonable, well thought out development in appropriate parts of town,” she said.

Crain said she’s enjoyed her time on the Planning Board and wants to continue to serve the town.

“I thought my mix of skills and actual work experience and commitment to the town would be a good mix for the town. I realize I’m more of a newcomer, but I think I have a lot to offer,” said Crain.

Crain’s opponent Osenkowski is not a newcomer to Mattapoisett, but this race marks his first bid for an elected government position.

“I want to give something back to the community,” said Osenkowski, who is also a Director of the Mattapoisett Land Trust. “I also want to express my concern for maintaining the quality of life in Mattapoisett, yet allow the town to grow.”

Osenkowski, a retired dentist, said he is interested in seeing what it’s like to be involved in town politics, and was inspired to run after seeing his daughter become involved in her local school committee.

“If she can do it with her busy schedule, then why the hell can’t I?” said Osenkowski.

The Mattapoisett Town Election is May 21.