Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H3890

Introduced
6/5/23  
Refer
6/5/23  
Refer
9/25/23  
Engrossed
12/7/23  
Engrossed
11/18/24  
Refer
11/21/24  

Caption

Amending the board of works in the town of Lee

Impact

The impact of H3890 on state laws is primarily localized to the governance framework of the town of Lee. By establishing a board that assumes the responsibilities previously held by various other municipal bodies, the bill attempts to streamline the operations related to public works, such as water and sewer management. It does not appear to conflict with broader state laws, instead functioning within the framework defined by municipal governance. However, it will require adjustments to existing local by-laws to accommodate these changes.

Summary

House Bill H3890 is an act aimed at restructuring the board of public works in the town of Lee, Massachusetts. The bill proposes the establishment of a new department and board of public works, which will consist of five members appointed by the select board. This restructuring is expected to create a more organized approach to local public works management, ensuring that the board operates under the select board's authority while having the flexibility to propose recommendations. Members of the board will serve staggered three-year terms, and the bill ensures that municipal employees are barred from membership to maintain a level of independence.

Conclusion

Overall, H3890 is designed to improve the management of public works within the town of Lee by establishing a dedicated board. As municipal structures evolve, the success of this bill will depend largely on its implementation and the responsiveness of the new board to the needs of the community it serves.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding this bill may involve the autonomy of local governance. Critics might argue that the establishment of a new board, while potentially beneficial in organization, could dilute the responsibilities previously managed by different entities, thus complicating accountability. The bill stipulates that the new board will inherit all powers vested in the former boards, which raises concerns about how efficiently these responsibilities will be managed and whether additional oversight will be necessary.

Companion Bills

MA S2371

Similar To Authorizing the town of Rutland to increase the membership of the board of selectmen

Previously Filed As

MA H2100

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

MA H4858

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

MA H3865

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

MA H4998

Amending the charter of the town of Bellingham

MA H3951

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

MA H4559

Amending the charter of the town of Scituate

MA S24

Amending the charter of the town of Sandwich

MA H3913

Amending the charter of the town of Seekonk

MA S20

Amending the charter of the town of Seekonk

MA H3731

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

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.