SPRINGFIELD-The Town of Springfield Planning Board is looking for a new chairperson.

Late last year, board chairperson Rick Morris announced that he would only serve as chairperson until the end of 2004. However, now in mid-January, the planning board still has not found a willing candidate. Morris said he would continue to serve as chairperson until someone else stepped up.

During its January meeting, the board voted member Anne Murphy to the position, but Murphy, who was not present at the meeting, refused the position.

After an eventful two years as chairperson, Morris said he is burned out.

He said the position of chairperson is very demanding, as is his normal full-time job.

Morris, a three-year planning board member, said he would consider taking on the position at a later date.

Planning board vice chairperson Bill Harmon gave his position up this year as well. Taking his place is two-year board member Dave Staley.

Both Harmon, who has been on the board since 1987, and Morris will continue to serve as board members.

Board member Joy White, whose term ended in December, was also reinstated.

"We should have everything cleared up by next meeting," Morris said.

Town supervisor Tom Armstrong said he is happy with the recent changes to the planning board.

"I think [Staley and White] are fair and knowledgeable," Armstrong said.