Bill > H2330

This bill restructures the governance of the Springfield Water and Sewer Commission by establishing a new seven-member board of directors, with four members appointed by the Springfield mayor (including one minority representative) and three members appointed by an advisory board. The advisory board will consist of representatives from seven cities and towns, with voting power allocated based on each municipality's estimated water and sewer service charges. Board members will serve six-year terms, can be reappointed, and can be removed for misconduct. The board will elect its own chairman annually, with four members constituting a quorum and requiring four affirmative votes to take action. Members will serve without compensation but can be reimbursed for expenses. The advisory board will have specific responsibilities, including appointing three board members, reviewing budgets, holding public hearings, and providing an ombudsman to analyze the commission's operations and represent municipal interests. No board member can serve more than two consecutive terms, and the commission must update its organizational documents by December 31, 2026, to align with these new governance provisions. The bill aims to create a more representative and accountable management structure for the water and sewer commission.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2330