By William Tauro

Somerville’s preliminary election results show a significant shift, with incumbent Mayor Katjana Ballantyne earning only 23% of the vote, falling short of advancing to the general election.

City councilors Jake Wilson and Willie Burnley emerged as the top contenders, securing 42% and 34% of the votes, respectively, and will compete in the November runoff. Ballantyne, who took over from long-serving mayor Joe Curtatone after his 18-year tenure, has served two terms but will conclude her time in office in January.