Community Educational Forums Scheduled to Discuss Proposition 2½ Ballot Initiative

Malden residents are invited to attend a series of five educational forums focused on the upcoming Proposition 2½ ballot initiative special election taking place on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. Each session will cover the same material, allowing residents multiple opportunities to attend at a time and location convenient for them. There will be one online forum as well.

Proposition 2½ is a state law that gives voters the power to raise additional funds for City services through property taxes. Last year, facing a significant budget gap that could greatly reduce City services, the Mayor and the City Council worked together to put a Proposition 2½ question on the ballot.

The forums are designed to provide residents with clear, factual information about Proposition 2½, explain how it affects local government services and school funding, and outline what the ballot question would mean for the community. The forums are intended to be informational only and will offer attendees the opportunity to ask questions and gain a clearer understanding of the issue before the March 31 Election Day.

The educational forums will be held:

1. Wednesday, February 11th at 6 PM: Salemwood School Auditorium, 529 Salem Street, Malden
2. Saturday, February 28th at 10 AM: On-line forum (TEAMS)
3. Thursday, March 5th at 6 PM: Beebe School Auditorium, 501 Peasant Street, Malden
4. Monday, March 16th at 6 PM: Ferryway School Auditorium, 150 Cross Street, Malden
5. Wednesday, March 25th at 6 PM: Linden STEAM Academy Auditorium, 29 Wescott Street, Malden

Presentations will be made by Mayor Gary Christenson, City Councillors, and City Finance employees who will discuss Proposition 2½, and the potential implications of the proposed ballot initiative. “Understanding Proposition 2½ is critical for voters,” said Mayor Gary Christenson. “The forums are designed to ensure residents have accurate, factual information so they can make informed decisions at the ballot box.”

The forums are open to the public and accessible to all residents. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, please contact Maria Luise, ADA Compliance Coordinator at ml****@**********en.org or 781-397-7000 Ext. 2005.

For more information, please visit cityofmalden.org/override.