Stoneham Board Sets September 30 Deadline for Override Study Committee Report

STONEHAM — September 9, 2025 — Stoneham Select Board pushes Override Study Committee toward September 30 report deadline, eyes December 9 ballot. At its September 9 meeting, the five-member board — unanimous in its support for a Proposition 2½ override — pressed Town Administrator Dennis Sheehan and the Override Study Committee, which has voted 7-1 to recommend an override, to deliver a final written report by month's end. Board members Rami Melhem and Ryan argued the town cannot wait for a full committee report before beginning to share a baseline "no-override" shortfall figure with residents, warning that potential consequences include library closure, senior center elimination, and understaffed public safety departments. Sheehan cautioned against releasing preliminary numbers before the new school superintendent presents her budget figures, expected the week of September 16. Three election scenarios prepared by Town Clerk Maria Sangarino — December 2, December 9, and January 13 — were discussed, with members expressing a preference for December 9 because it provides an extra week for voter mailings and a public forum under MGL Chapter 53, Section 18B, a provision enabling pro-and-con ballot booklets the board is considering placing before voters at an October 20 Special Town Meeting. The board also unanimously approved a $10,000 draw from the Stockwell Trust for Health Department flu vaccines, granted a livery license to on-demand transit service Circuit, approved a family-succession liquor license amendment for Angelo's Pizzeria at 239 Main Street, and announced the new Stoneham High School dedication ceremony for September 27 at 10 a.m.