Understanding Lowell’s Voting System: How Your Voice Shapes Our Future

As we get closer to Election Day, one of the most powerful things we can do for our city is educate ourselves about how our votes work. Lowell’s voting system is unique — and understanding it helps us make sure every neighborhood, every family, and every voice is represented at City Hall.

Lowell’s Hybrid Voting System

Lowell uses a hybrid district plus at-large electoral system for both the City Council and School Committee. This structure was designed to give every part of our city a stronger voice in the decisions that affect us all.

How the City Council Works

The City Council is made up of 11 members who serve two-year terms:

• 8 members are elected from specific neighborhood districts. That means each district — like the Highlands, Pawtucketville, or Downtown — gets its own representative who understands its unique challenges and priorities.

• 3 members are elected at-large, meaning every registered voter in Lowell can vote for these candidates, regardless of which neighborhood they live in.

This balance ensures that we get both neighborhood representation and city-wide collaboration when decisions are being made.

Preliminary Elections: Why They Matter

In some cases, when there are more than twice as many candidates running for a seat than there are openings, Lowell holds a preliminary election.

This process helps narrow down the field before the final Election Day, giving voters a clearer set of choices and making sure the strongest candidates move forward.

Why This Matters to Us

I’m running for City Council in District 8 because I believe our neighborhoods deserve a strong, dedicated voice. This hybrid system gives us the opportunity to make sure our local concerns are heard while still working together as a city to tackle big challenges like:

• Improving public safety

• Strengthening our schools

• Supporting small businesses

• Expanding affordable housing

But none of this can happen without you. Your vote shapes the future of Lowell — not just for one district, but for the entire community.

Let’s Make Our Voices Heard

This year, I encourage everyone to:

• Check your voter registration

• Learn about your district

• Understand how this hybrid system works

• Show up to vote — both in preliminary elections and on Election Day

Together, we can ensure that Lowell’s diversity, culture, and neighborhoods are fully represented at the decision-making table. Our voices matter. Let’s make them count.