Massachusetts Senate Bill S2371

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/13/23
• Refer: 3/13/23
• Report Pass: 5/4/23
• Engrossed: 8/10/23
• Refer: 8/14/23
• Engrossed: 10/2/23
• Enrolled: 3/18/24
• Chaptered: 3/27/24
• Passed: 3/27/24

Caption

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

Impact

By increasing the board's size, the bill aims to strengthen the town's legislative capacity, potentially improving its ability to address community needs and concerns more effectively. It allows the select board to act as a board of public works, granting them the authority to manage public works functions. This transition could lead to more responsive governance in relation to local infrastructure and community projects, thereby enhancing the overall quality of public services in Rutland.

Summary

Senate Bill S2371 seeks to authorize the town of Rutland to expand the membership of its board of selectmen from three to five members. This change is intended to enhance local governance by providing more representation and facilitating greater public engagement in the decision-making process. Each newly elected member will serve a term of three years, with staggered expiration dates to ensure continuity within the board. The bill explicitly asserts that this new structure will function under the existing legal framework governing boards of selectmen in Massachusetts.

Contention

While the bill received local approval, debates may arise regarding the effectiveness of increased membership in achieving better governance. Critics may point to the potential for longer decision-making processes due to the increased number of members, or concerns that it may lead to greater conflict among board members on various issues. Supporters argue that the benefits of diverse perspectives and enhanced community representation outweigh any drawbacks associated with an enlarged board.