Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H2269

Introduced
2/27/25  
Refer
2/27/25  

Caption

Bridgewater town charter article IV, town manager "temporary absence"

Impact

The primary impact of this bill is on the governance structure of Bridgewater, allowing for a clearer delineation of responsibilities when the Town Manager is temporarily unavailable. By stipulating that the Assistant Town Manager steps in first, it aims to provide a seamless transition of duties. Furthermore, if both the Assistant Town Manager and the appointed department head are not available, it empowers the Town Council to appoint another qualified individual, thereby preventing any potential leadership vacuum that could hinder town operations.

Summary

House Bill 2269 proposes an amendment to the Bridgewater town charter regarding the chain of command during a temporary absence of the Town Manager. Specifically, it allows for the Assistant Town Manager to assume the duties of the Town Manager for absences not exceeding twenty-one consecutive days. In cases where the Assistant Town Manager is unable to serve, the Town Manager is given the authority to appoint a department head to perform those duties. This provision seeks to ensure continuity of governance in the absence of the Town Manager and details the process for appointing an acting Town Manager if necessary.

Contention

While the summary of the discussions around HB 2269 from the provided documents does not detail significant contention points, such amendments to local charters can generally spark debate regarding the delegation of authority and the effectiveness of local governance. Some community members may question whether the Assistant Town Manager possesses the necessary skills and experience for leadership during the Town Manager's absence, which could lead to discussions about governance qualifications and oversight within local government structures.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MA H3728

Approving the Townsend special act charter

MA S2422

Changing the board of selectmen in the town of East Bridgewater to a select board

MA S2523

Relative to the town charter for the town of Southbridge

MA H4998

Amending the charter of the town of Bellingham

MA H3960

Establishing the position of Town Manager in the town of Belchertown

MA H3259

Allowing cities and towns the authority to issue temporary parking identification placards to the temporarily disabled

MA H4237

Approving the town of Wrentham home rule charter as amended

MA H2100

Creating the offices of select board and town manager in the town of Sandisfield

MA H3871

Exempting all uniformed positions in the police department of the town of East Bridgewater from the civil service law

MA H4559

Amending the charter of the town of Scituate

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.