Scott Bill Hirst, a member of North Stonington Grange and New London County Pomona, was elected to the Hopkinton, R.I., Town Council by a mere two votes, 1503-1501; for the fifth and last seat on the town council, this past November. Unlike many Connecticut municipalities, most Rhode Island municipalities elect officials on the even year. In addition there is no minority representation requirement, required like in Connecticut. Candidates are elected in partisan or non-partisan elections in Rhode Island.

Hirst is the only living Republican elected to a fourth and now a fifth time as a town council member. He was sworn into office by his brother James R. Hirst, a Rhode Island Notary Public; on Monday, November 22, 2010. Their mother Ruth was present. 

Brother Hirst is Chairman of both the Legislative Committees of North Stonington Community Grange No. 138, and New London County Pomona Grange No. 6. He is a Past Master of both Granges and is Steward and an Executive Committee member of his Pomona Grange.