2025 Annual Town Election Information for HW
*More Information to Come*
Got Questions? You're not the only one!
As my mother would say, "heavens to Betsy" why are we still talking about elections!?! It's true! Annual Town Elections are coming up on Thursday and there are still important votes on the line.
We have done our best to compile the most frequently asked questions about this year's town electoral process for our members.
Please reach out if you have additional questions that were not addressed here so we can share them out with the membership. If you're wondering, we guarantee someone else is too! Please feel free to share this information with others in your H/W network.
Michelle Granese
Civic Engagement
Annual Town Election FAQs
Didn't we just vote at Town Meeting? Do I need to vote again on Thursday?
Yes! There are items (articles) at Town Meeting that are not on the Annual Election Ballot this Thursday, such as your respective town's elected officials including Select Board, School Committee, Assessors, etc.
Elected official positions are the core of our towns' government. We strongly encourage you to participate in the selection process for these roles.
I wasn't able to attend my Town Meeting on Saturday, am I allowed to vote on Thursday?
Yes! Participation at Town Meeting is not necessary to also vote in Annual Town Election. All registered voters in Hamilton and Wenham are encouraged to participate in their respective ballot election.
This is also a fantastic opportunity to have all adults in your household participate. We know many families had to divide and conquer for Town Meeting.
I'll have my hands full on Thursday juggling the kids and other commitments. How much time should I set aside to vote?
Yup, same! 15 minutes or so, depending on the time of day. Town Elections are typically very smooth and quick. Minimal lines, easy check in, bring the kids if you need to. It's especially speedy if you've studied the ballot beforehand and have a plan for each candidate and question. (See below) You've got this!
Something's come up and I can't vote on Thursday. Can I vote early?
You are allowed to submit your ballot early for travel, religious, or medical reasons by 12 p.m. on Wednesday, April 9.
Head on into your Town Hall to see the Clerk. On Tuesday 4/8, Wenham Town Hall is open 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Hamilton is open 8:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Then on Wednesday, Wenham Town Hall opens at 8 a.m. and Hamilton opens at 8:30 a.m.
How can I read up on the candidates running for election and the ballot questions?
Hamilton has posted a copy of the ballot that will be used on Thursday.
Wenham does not have a copy of the actual ballot posted, but lists all candidates and questions here.
And as a reminder, the local chapter of the League of Women Voters recently interviewed candidates and have posted the videos here.
I'm confused about the consolidated elementary school vote. Since it didn't pass 2/3 majority at Town Meetings, will it be on the ballot on Thursday?
Technically, yes, this question will be on both Hamilton and Wenham's ballots on Thursday. The ballots were printed well before the Town Meeting, and many people have already voted absentee.
While Saturday's Town Meeting votes did not reach the necessary 2/3 majority required, they did receive simple majority at both meetings. If this is a position that you want your voice heard - for or against - you're encouraged to reinforce your position at the polls. As mentioned earlier, if you were not able to attend Town Meeting, Thursday's election is still an important venue to indicate your views on the future of this type of project and the leadership who will guide it.
My friend who mailed in her ballot said that the question about the consolidated school was worded very strangely. What's the deal?
The legal jargon essentially asks if agree for your town to pay their respective share of the costs of a new Cutler Elementary School. (See above q/a about why this still matters.)
If you agree on the proposed new Elementary School project: Yes
If you do not agree on the proposed Elementary School project: No