As Marblehead confronts a $7.7 million budget deficit for fiscal 2027, residents concerned about deep cuts to schools and town services have launched a grassroots ballot question committee called For Marblehead. The group will “advocate for sustainable funding, responsible policies and strong civic leadership in support of the town’s schools, services and infrastructure,” according to a press release.
For Marblehead is pushing for a “comprehensive, forward-looking” override that will “provide meaningful support across town departments.”
It is not seeking a “menu approach” override that would allow residents to pick and choose which departments to fund, according to the group.
“We need to look at this holistically,” said Margaux Stunzi Danforth, who grew up in Marblehead and is raising her two young daughters here.
There isn’t one particular cut that hurts her the most.
“It’s not just one thing. It’s the entirety,” Stunzi Danforth said, listing the schools, library and Council on Aging. “This is a pivotal moment to invest in Marblehead for today and future generations.”
When she heard that Abbot Library might close due to cuts, Jeanne Lambkin knew she had to get involved. She liked the vibe of the For Marblehead volunteers.
“It feels the opposite of divisive,” Lambkin said. “I don’t want cuts in any department — I have strong feelings across the board. And I don’t want to have regrets that I didn’t step up to help get the best possible solution.”
In a letter sent to the Select Board on March 20, For Marblehead said it is working toward a comprehensive, multiyear override that would:
- Address the needs of the entire town, including schools, municipal services, public works, the library, the Council on Aging and other essential functions, rather than pitting priorities against one another.
- Provide a multiyear solution that offers stability and avoids returning to the same challenges in the near future.
- Give voters the chance not just to stabilize, but to restore and strengthen Marblehead through higher-tier override options.
- Ensure transparency and discipline in how funds are used, with clear commitments and regular public reporting. This should include a memorandum of understanding among the Select Board, School Committee and town administration, with defined priorities and annual accountability.
Since launching late last week, organizers say they have heard from more than 100 residents interested in helping.
“In the coming weeks, For Marblehead will focus on community outreach, voter education and public engagement around Marblehead’s financial outlook and the key decisions ahead before the Select Board and at Town Meeting,” according to the press release.
For more information, visit formarblehead.org.
