Bill > H4263

This bill establishes a comprehensive new charter for the city of Medford, Massachusetts, which would fundamentally restructure the city's local government. The charter creates a strong mayor-council system with an 11-member city council (8 ward representatives and 3 at-large members) and a separately elected mayor serving 4-year terms. The school committee would consist of 7 members (6 elected and the mayor as an ex-officio member), with district and at-large representation. The charter introduces robust citizen participation mechanisms, including initiative, referendum, and recall processes, allowing residents to directly engage in local governance. Key provisions include detailed rules for elections, appointments, budget procedures, and administrative organization, with an emphasis on transparency, accountability, and ethical governance. The bill provides for the charter to be initially voted on in a November 4, 2025 election, with implementation of the new governmental structure set to begin with elections in November 2027. Notable features include term limits for the mayor, specific procedures for filling vacancies, and requirements for public hearings and open government. The charter aims to create a more responsive, inclusive, and professionally managed municipal government that learns from Medford's historical legacy while meeting the needs of a modern, diverse community.

Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4263