With the upcoming special election on September 10th, 7AM-8PM, we realize that the community still has many questions about both the contract with the Teachers’ Union as well as our budget request in general. In an effort to increase community engagement throughout this process, we will be hosting a series of information sessions to provide opportunities for discussions with the community. Please join us to discuss the upcoming special election and override, or other questions you may have about the schools.
We hope you can join us at our sessions next week on Tuesday, August 13th at 6:30pm at the Holliston Public Library, and Wednesday August 14th 11:00am at the Senior Center. You can also find more information on the Holliston Public Schools’ Special Election website: https://www.holliston.k12.ma.us/special-election-override
Upcoming Information Sessions:
- Tuesday, August 13th – 6:30-7:30pm – Holliston Public Library
- Wednesday, August 14th, 11am-12pm – Senior Center
- Saturday, August 24th – 9-10am – Coffee Haven
- Thursday, August 29th – 9-10am – zoom
- Saturday, September 7th – 9-10am – Coffee Haven
When and where is the election?
The special election will be held on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 from 7am-8pm in the Holliston High School Field House. Voters can also vote by mail or absentee ballot.
Who can vote on the override?
All voters registered to vote in Holliston are eligible to vote. To verify your registration, or register to vote (DEADLINE is August 31st), use this link: https://www.sec.state.ma.us/OVR/
Are there early voting options or vote-by-mail ballots available?
Yes, voters can vote in advance of election day through vote-by-mail and absentee ballots. There is not going to be an early in-person voting option, however, information, including a vote by mail application, can be found on the Town of Holliston website: https://www.townofholliston.us/town-clerk
Is Holliston the only community currently facing tough budget issues?
No. Many Massachusetts communities are seeing significant increases in their “level service” budget and some of these are pursuing overrides to manage those budgets. Arlington passed a $7M operational override in November 2023, Acton passed a $6.6M operational override in April 2024. Franklin sought a $6.8M override in June and lost by 200 votes, which will result in cuts to the Franklin Public Schools. Millis proposed an override this Spring, but it lost by 8 votes and will result in cuts to the Millis school district.
What options are there for tax relief for people that this will hit the hardest – low income or fixed-income residents?
There are a number of programs available through the Board of Assessors that provide relief to those on limited means. Most recently, a new Means-Tested Senior Exemption (passed by Town Meeting May 2022 and signed into law by the Governor in May 2024) will be available beginning in FY25. For more information, visit the links to the town website below or contact Kevin Rudden at town hall. Ruddenke@holliston.k12.ma.us
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