Stoughton voters will return to the ballot box earlier than expected this year after the Select Board confirmed that a field of seven candidates has triggered a mandatory preliminary election. Under the Town Charter, a preliminary contest is required when more than six candidates vie for two available seats. Chair Stephen Cavey noted that while the board must formally approve the date, the timing is strictly governed by charter requirements, leading to the selection of February 17, 2026. Motion Made by L. Gitto to approve the preliminary election for February 17, 2026. Motion Passed (4-0-0).

The board also engaged in a sharp debate over its own scheduling, ultimately deciding to move the start time of all future Thursday night meetings to 7:30 PM. Member Scott Carrara, who proposed the change, argued the later start would benefit both municipal employees and the public. Carrara stated the shift ensures employees in this building have time to leave their offices and close up productively the way they want to, noting that the current schedule often results in residents milling around or cars occupying spots while staff are attempting to depart for the day. He characterized the move as common sense given recent logistical challenges at Town Hall.

The proposal met resistance from Vice Chair Debra Roberts, who questioned the propriety of voting on a policy that was not listed as a specific item on the night’s agenda. Roberts also highlighted the absence of Member Joseph Mokrisky as a reason to delay. My concern is that we do this sometimes, and then other times it's out, Roberts said, suggesting the board wait for a full five-member body. Couldn't we vote on this next Tuesday? It gives people a chance to at least all be here and make sure there are no glitches. Despite her concerns, the board moved forward with the decision. Chair Cavey indicated he would place the matter on the next consent agenda to reaffirm the vote after a review by Town Counsel. Motion Made by S. Carrara to set Thursday Select Board meeting start times to no earlier than 7:30 PM. Motion Passed (3-1-0), with Roberts dissenting.

In other business, the board continued its focus on the ongoing litigation regarding Stoughton Media Access Corp (SMAC). Vice Chair Roberts presided over a brief extension of the public hearing for the SMAC settlement agreement, pushing the matter to January 29, 2026. The new 7:30 PM start time was immediately applied to that future hearing. Motion Made by D. Roberts to continue the public hearing to January 29, 2026, at 7:30 PM. Motion Passed. The board then moved into a closed executive session to discuss strategy regarding SMAC and Speya litigation, citing potential detrimental effects on the town's legal position if discussed in open session. Motion Made by S. Carrara to enter into executive session and not return to open session. Motion Passed (4-0-0).