The Marblehead Board of Health is set to grow from three to five members starting this June. This change follows a strong vote from Town Meeting in May 2024, where 522 residents supported the expansion to add two new seats. However, the plan needed approval from the state Legislature, which is now in place.
Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer is working on a system to ensure that all Town Meeting decisions are properly put into action. He plans to review the articles with his team after the meeting wraps up to assign responsibilities for moving forward.
One existing seat, currently held by Tom McMahon, will be up for grabs, along with the two new positions. The voting process will be unique: the first candidate will serve a three-year term, the second for two years, and the third for one year. After that, any new board members will serve standard three-year terms.
When asked if he would run for re-election, McMahon hinted that he might focus on the Select Board instead, depending on how local police handle underage drinking at parties.
Tom Massaro, the chair of the Board of Health, mentioned that several residents have already shown interest in running. He emphasized the importance of this election, especially given current concerns about public health policies coming from Washington, D.C.
This expansion mirrors trends in other communities. Across the country, local health boards have been pivotal during the pandemic, addressing issues from COVID-19 responses to vaccine regulations. For example, a recent report by the National Association of County and City Health Officials found that local health departments are becoming more influential, reinforcing the need for diverse representation and effective leadership.
Expect to see a vibrant election season in Marblehead, as the community seeks leaders ready to tackle pressing health issues.
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