Marblehead operates under the open Town Meeting form of government. This is a form of direct democracy which brings together eligible voters to debate and vote policy matters and budgets relating to town government.  Town meeting occurs annually in the spring, and occasionally a Special Town Meeting is necessary.  Town Meeting provides an opportunity for town officials and citizens to speak for/against any of the warrant articles (agenda items) and allows citizens to vote for or against the individual warrant articles. This form government has been used since the 17th century, primarily in the New England states. 

 2024 Town Warrant

LWV of Marblehead Guide to Town Meeting

Marblehead's 2023 Guide to Town Meeting

Practical Guide to Town Meeting by Gary Spiess

Further information on the Town Meeting form of government is available in the Citizen's Guide to Town Meeting published by the Office of the Massachusetts Secretary of State.