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The following was submitted by the Committee to Elect Stephen G. Ternullo:
Republican candidate for state representative Stephen Ternullo criticized Rep. Michael Day for supporting the Legislature’s $63.4 billion state budget, saying it continues Beacon Hill’s pattern of increasing spending while failing to provide meaningful relief for local taxpayers.
“Representative Day’s vote for this budget shows just how disconnected Beacon Hill has become from the financial reality facing families in Stoneham and Winchester,” said Ternullo. “The budget increases state spending by 4%, relies on one-time revenues, and fails to provide the predictable local aid our communities need.”
Ternullo pointed to the immediate impact on local taxpayers. On July 1, Stoneham homeowners received higher property tax bills following the implementation of the town’s $9.3 million Proposition 2½ override. Meanwhile, Winchester is facing a projected $5 million structural deficit, leaving many residents concerned they could soon face similar tax increases.
“When local officials have asked Beacon Hill for long-term solutions, they’ve received temporary earmarks instead of meaningful reform,” Ternullo said. “Communities deserve a funding system they can rely on—not one that forces residents back to the ballot every few years for another property tax override.”
Ternullo said his campaign is rooted in the perspective of a working taxpayer.
“For the past 38 years, I’ve gone to work every day as a refrigeration technician and proud member of Pipefitters Local 537,” Ternullo said. “I know what it means to earn a paycheck, balance a household budget, and worry about rising costs. Families across our district deserve a representative who understands those challenges because they’ve lived them.”
If elected, Ternullo pledged to fight for reforms to Massachusetts’ outdated local aid formulas so communities like Stoneham and Winchester can adequately fund schools, public safety, and essential services without repeatedly turning to property tax overrides.
Ternullo also renewed his call for greater transparency and accountability on Beacon Hill.
“Massachusetts voters overwhelmingly approved Ballot Question 1 to allow the State Auditor to audit the Legislature. Representative Michael Day voted against that transparency. I will stand with the taxpayers and fight to ensure the State Auditor is finally allowed to conduct the audit the people voted for.
“Taxpayers deserve better than higher spending on Beacon Hill and higher tax bills at home,” Ternullo said. “It’s time for leadership that puts fiscal responsibility, transparency, and hardworking families first.”
