Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H2100

Introduced
2/16/23  
Refer
2/16/23  

Caption

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

Impact

The establishment of the select board and town manager under this bill represents a significant change in municipal governance for Sandisfield. It introduces a more formalized structure for local administration, allowing for clearer decision-making processes and accountability. The town manager, appointed by the select board, will oversee day-to-day operations and administration of town affairs, including financial management and personnel decisions. This shift to this governance model is expected to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of town operations.

Summary

House Bill H2100 seeks to establish the offices of a select board and a town manager in the town of Sandisfield, Massachusetts. The proposed select board will consist of three members, elected for staggered three-year terms, and tasked with serving as the chief policymaking body for the town. This legislation aims to create a structure for local governance that aligns with modern administrative needs, empowering the select board with various executive powers, including entering into agreements, formulating policies, and overseeing the operations of town agencies.

Contention

While the bill has received local approval, there may be points of contention surrounding the shift in governance. Stakeholders might debate the implications of a select board on local control versus centralized authority, particularly regarding how much power is delegated to the town manager. There may be concerns regarding the selection process for board members and whether this new structure aligns with the needs and preferences of the Sandisfield community. The balance of authority between the select board and town manager needs to be carefully delineated to avoid potential overreach or mismanagement in local governance.

Companion Bills

MA H3907

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

Previously Filed As

MA H3907

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

MA H3890

Amending the board of works in the town of Lee

MA H5119

Creating select board-town manager form of government in the town of Holliston

MA H3951

Authorizing the town of Richmond to continue the employment of Steven Traver as fire chief

MA H3865

Authorizing the town of West Stockbridge to continue the employment of Steven Traver as fire chief

MA H4244

Changing the board of selectmen in the town of Dunstable to the select board

MA H3731

Exempting all future members of the police department of the town of Great Barrington from the civil service law

MA H4858

Authorizing the town of Lee to continue the employment of assistant chief Glenn M. Wilcox

MA H4135

Amending the town manager act of Arlington relative to the appointment and management of the town clerk

MA H4079

Relative to the office of town clerk and town treasurer in the town known as Southwick

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.