Changing the board of selectmen in the town of Dunstable to the select board
Impact
By enacting H4244, Dunstable will officially adopt the title of 'select board' for its executive body, along with 'select board members' for the individuals serving on this board. This change will impact how the town operates under Massachusetts law, ensuring that the updated terminology is reflected across governance documents, by-laws, and regulations. The bill allows the select board to amend the town's general and zoning by-laws to incorporate these new terms, ensuring consistency throughout local governance frameworks.
Summary
House Bill H4244 proposes to change the name of the 'board of selectmen' in the town of Dunstable to 'select board.' The bill aims to modernize the terminology used to designate the executive body of the town, reflecting a broader trend towards adopting more inclusive language in local governance. This change is significant as it aligns with efforts to move towards more gender-neutral terminology in governmental roles, thereby making local governance more inclusive.
Contention
While the bill has received local approval, discussions around such changes often raise questions about the effectiveness and necessity of altering established terminology. Supporters argue that the change is a step towards modernization and inclusivity in governance, recognizing the shifting perspectives on gender and representation in leadership roles. Opponents may view the change as unnecessary or as a diversion from more pressing local governance issues, though such opposition was not explicitly detailed in the available discussions.
Similar To
To authorize the Wrentham Board of Selectmen to remove certain positions of the town of Wrentham Fire Department from the requirements of M.G.L. Ch. 31