Bill > H3898

This bill proposes several amendments to the Town of Natick Home Rule Charter, with a primary focus on changing the title of "town administrator" to "town manager" and modifying various governmental processes and structures. The bill requires a ballot question to be placed before voters to approve these charter amendments, with the changes taking immediate effect if approved. Key modifications include updating town meeting member vacancy procedures, expanding the town moderator's appointment powers by creating a deputy moderator position, clarifying the powers and duties of the Select Board and town manager, and establishing more detailed processes for budget preparation, capital improvement planning, and town agency organization. The bill also updates definitions for local newspapers and multiple member bodies, standardizes appointment procedures for various town positions, and provides more flexibility in notice and communication methods. Notably, the bill strengthens the town manager's administrative role while maintaining the Select Board's policy-making authority, and introduces more transparent processes for appointments, performance reviews, and potential removals of key town officials. The amendments aim to modernize the town's governance structure, improve administrative efficiency, and provide clearer guidelines for municipal operations.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3898