Jorja Marsden Secures Select Board Seat in Stockbridge Election

In a significant local election, Jorja Marsden has unofficially secured a seat on the Stockbridge Select Board following the special election held on August 26, 2023. Marsden received 368 votes, accounting for approximately 72 percent of the 509 total votes cast, while her opponent, Charlotte (Sally) Underwood-Miller, garnered 139 votes, about 27 percent. There were also two write-in votes. The turnout for this election represented about 31 percent of Stockbridge’s 1,667 registered voters.

Stockbridge Town Clerk Terri Iemolini announced the unofficial results shortly after voting concluded at 18:30 local time. Marsden’s victory marks a continuation of her longstanding involvement in the town’s governance, having served in various capacities for over three decades. She began her local government career as an elected town clerk in 1985 and retired as the town administrator in 2016, holding roles such as assistant tax collector, assistant treasurer, and secretary of the Planning Board.

Marsden’s Vision for Stockbridge

Following the announcement of the results, Marsden expressed her excitement and gratitude, stating, “It feels wonderful… I’m so excited. I’m speechless.” She emphasized her commitment to serving all residents of Stockbridge, saying, “I’m looking forward to doing what I said and being there for everybody, all of the people of Stockbridge, and for the town that I love.”

Marsden plans to familiarize herself with ongoing issues before the next Select Board meeting, scheduled for September 4 at 18:30. She also reflected on the friendly nature of her campaign alongside Underwood-Miller, noting their shared perspectives on key town matters.

The vacancy on the Select Board arose after former member Patrick White resigned on June 10, 2023. With Jamie Minacci as the chair and Ernest “Chuck” Cardillo as a member, the board is now poised to welcome Marsden, marking a significant milestone with two women on the Select Board for the first time in the town’s history.

Future Goals and Community Engagement

Looking ahead, Marsden confirmed her intention to run for a full three-year term in the upcoming May election. She expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with Minacci and Cardillo to achieve her objectives and continue the ongoing projects of the board. “Working together with the other two selectmen and the people of the town, we can get some of my other goals accomplished,” she stated.

Marsden also reaffirmed her support for the return of public comment segments to Select Board agendas, highlighting the importance of community engagement in local governance. Underwood-Miller, reflecting on the election outcome, expressed her satisfaction, stating, “I’m pleased with the results. [Marsden] will make a great Select Board member.”

As Stockbridge prepares for this new chapter in its governance, the community is likely to watch closely as Marsden takes her place on the Select Board, eager to see how her experience and vision will shape the town’s future.