The transition from Town Meeting to the ballot box is a move from the legislative to the executive phase of our local democracy. This Tuesday, May 5, Harvard voters are asked to complete the work started at Town Meeting. While the candidate races for our major boards are uncontested, the ballot is far from a mere formality.
We owe a debt of gratitude to the residents who have stepped forward to serve. In an era of volunteer burnout, seeing every seat on the Select Board, School Committee, and Library Trustees filled is a sign of a healthy community. You might think of the candidate Q&As published in this week’s paper as an informal job interview; your vote on Tuesday is a ratification of that contract.
Of particular note is the race for the Warner Free Lecture Trustees. While incumbent Michael Kilian is on the ballot, resident Steve Richter has launched a write-in campaign to fill the second vacancy. For those who wish to support Richter, remember: You must physically write his name on the line, ensure the spelling is correct, and—crucially—fill in the oval next to the name for the vote to count.
Beyond the candidates are two critical questions described in detail in this week’s explainers (See “Ballot Question 1” on page 1 and “Ballot Question 2" on page 4.) Question 1 is a $135,370 Proposition 2½ override to protect services the Select Board deemed essential—from student intervention resources to a full-time community and economic development director. Question 2 authorizes a debt exclusion of up to $800,000 to replace the deteriorating Eldridge Road culvert, a move DPW Director Eric Ryder calls vital for public safety.
Town Meeting is where we deliberate, but the election is where we authorize. Whether you are casting a vote of confidence for our leaders or weighing in on infrastructure, showing up is the final, essential step in Harvard’s self-governance. In 2025, 1659 of Harvard’s 4,777 registered voters cast ballots, a 34% turnout. Can this year’s 4846-member electorate do better?
Polls are open at the Hildreth Elementary School gym from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.