After the April election, town leaders went back to the drawing board to address the concerns of voters. By reducing the override amount and refining the plan, they presented a more palatable option that resonated with the community. The results speak for themselves: when leaders listen and voters engage, positive change follows.

The voters have spoken loud and clear: they want responsible funding for our schools and senior center, and they want it now. Despite turning down a larger override in April, the community came together in December to approve a more focused and manageable $9.3 million override.

This override election had the largest turnout of any municipal election in recent memory, demonstrating the community's commitment to shaping the future of Stoneham. The passage of the $9.3 million override by a significant margin shows that the voters have spoken decisively.

There were concerns that voters were confused by having two distinct override questions on the ballot and a fear that voters would not realize that Question 1 and Question 2 were separate items. This was also false by the results: Stonehamites not only understood to answer both questions, but they understood they can choose differently on each question based on their priorities.

Each precinct experienced a significant swing toward the Yes vote, demonstrating widespread support for the override across the entire community. This uniform shift highlights a clear message from all of Stoneham's neighborhoods: they are ready and willing to support responsible funding for our departments.

Voter turnout increased across all age groups from April to December, demonstrating a community-wide commitment to participating in Stoneham's future. The significant rise in engagement among younger voters, coupled with strong turnout from seniors, highlights a collective dedication to civic duty across generations.

This wasn't just a return of the April voters--1,777 new voters participated in December. They came from all age groups, showing a broad-based enthusiasm for the override. Notably, seniors made up the largest share of new voters, underscoring their commitment to supporting essential town services.

Despite concerns that seniors wouldn't be able to turn out during a December election, Stoneham's older residents proved once again that they are deeply invested in the future of our community and showed up in strong numbers to support our town!

Voter turnout increased in every precinct from April to December, highlighting the community's growing engagement and commitment to shaping Stoneham's future. The sweeping victory across all precincts underscores the collective desire for positive change.