The Westford School Committee meeting on March 3, 2025, focused on the potential shift of local election polling from Tuesday to Saturday, sparking discussions about voter accessibility and community engagement. Committee members expressed concerns about staffing challenges and the availability of volunteers on weekends compared to weekdays.

One member highlighted that other towns similar in size to Westford, such as Billerica and Dedham, successfully conduct Saturday elections without significant staffing issues. They noted that these towns have maintained voter turnout levels, although they could not provide specific before-and-after comparisons due to the long-standing practice of Saturday voting.

The committee also discussed the implications of taking a position on citizen petitions related to election scheduling. It was noted that the committee typically considers positions on issues directly impacting schools, and previous instances, such as the renaming of Indigenous Peoples' Day, were referenced as precedents.

Additionally, the committee acknowledged the role of the town meeting committee, which aims to enhance participation in local governance. Members emphasized the importance of making elections more accessible for families in the district, suggesting that a Saturday polling option could facilitate greater community involvement.

As discussions continue, the committee is expected to weigh the benefits of increased voter participation against the logistical challenges of implementing a Saturday election. The outcome of these deliberations could significantly influence future local election practices in Westford.