BROOKFIELD — POLLS OPEN NOON TO 7 P.M. FOR MONDAY TOWN ELECTION

By Christopher Kelleher 

BROOKFIELD — Voting hours for Brookfield’s annual town election on Monday, May 4, will be limited to the afternoon and evening, with polls open from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., according to town officials.

The Select Board voted to reduce the hours from the town’s typical 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. schedule. Town officials cited the absence of contested races on the ballot as the reason for the change.

Massachusetts law allows municipalities to set polling hours for local elections within certain limits.

Although no races are currently contested, the outcome of an election is not necessarily fixed. Under state law, voters may cast write-in, or “sticker,” votes for candidates whose names do not appear on the ballot.

Election observers note that write-in campaigns, while uncommon, can influence results, particularly in low-turnout elections.

Residents are encouraged to plan ahead and vote within the shortened hours. Local officials said participation remains an important part of the election process, regardless of whether races are contested.

Voting will take place at Brookfield Town Hall.

Voters with questions about polling procedures are encouraged to contact the Town Clerk’s office.