On Tuesday, November 4, voters in 55 cities and towns across Massachusetts will head to the polls. Polling places will generally be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. This election is particularly significant as it features various local races and issues that could shape municipal governance.
Massachusetts Elections: Key Issues in 55 Cities and Towns
Boston Municipal Elections
In Boston, incumbent Mayor Michelle Wu is uncontested in her pursuit of a second term. She previously won a landslide victory in the preliminary election. Mayor Wu’s former opponent, Josh Kraft, has withdrawn from the race.
Several city councilors-at-large, including Erin Murphy, Henry Santana, Ruthzee Louijeune, and Julia Mejia, are seeking re-election. Notably, former city councilor Frank Baker aims to return to office in this election cycle. In District 7, Rev. Miniard Culpepper and Said “Coach” Ahmed are competing for the position vacated by Tania Fernandes Anderson, who resigned after pleading guilty to public corruption charges.
Somerville’s Mayoral Race
In Somerville, incumbent Mayor Katjana Ballantyne did not progress past the preliminary elections. City councilors Willie Burnley Jr. and Jake Wilson are contesting for the mayoral position. Burnley Jr. has the potential to become Somerville’s first Black, openly queer, and polyamorous mayor, according to Axios Boston.
Everett’s Election
Everett’s long-time Mayor Carlo DeMaria, who has held the office since 2008, is facing off against City Councilor Robert Van Campen. Van Campen has brought attention to an Inspector General report that cited DeMaria for improperly receiving $180,000 in longevity payments. DeMaria claims that these payments were part of his eligible salary adjustments.
Lawrence and Brockton Elections
In Lawrence, current Mayor Brian De Pena is up against challenger Juan “Manny” Gonzalez. The Secretary of the Commonwealth’s office is monitoring the election following reports of “numerous complaints” regarding absentee ballot applications.
Brockton’s residents will make history, as they will elect either City Councilor Jean Bradley Derenoncourt or City Councilor Moises Rodrigues as the city’s first mayor of color.
Melrose Tax Override Decisions
Melrose voters are faced with three override options to fund city and school services. These overrides range from $9.3 million to $13.5 million. Homeowners can expect property tax increases averaging between $948 and $1,374, depending on the option chosen. The highest dollar amount that receives the majority of votes will be implemented.
Voting Locations in Massachusetts
Voters can cast their ballots in the following cities and towns:
- Agawam (8 a.m. – 8 p.m.)
- Amesbury
- Amherst
- Attleboro
- Barnstable
- Beverly
- Boston
- Braintree
- Brockton
- Cambridge
- Chelsea
- Chicopee (7 a.m. – 7 p.m.)
- Easthampton
- Everett
- Fall River
- Fitchburg
- Framingham
- Franklin (6 a.m. – 8 p.m.)
- Gardner
- Gloucester
- Greenfield
- Haverhill
- Holyoke
- Lawrence
- Leominster
- Lowell
- Lynn
- Malden
- Marlborough
- Medford
- Melrose
- Methuen (7 a.m. – 7 p.m.)
- New Bedford
- Newburyport
- Newton
- North Adams
- Northampton
- Peabody
- Pittsfield (8 a.m. – 8 p.m.)
- Quincy
- Randolph
- Revere
- Salem
- Saugus
- Somerville
- Springfield
- Taunton
- Waltham
- Watertown
- West Springfield
- Westfield (7 a.m. – 7 p.m.)
- Weymouth
- Winthrop
- Woburn
- Worcester
As the elections approach, residents are encouraged to participate actively in shaping their local governance.
