Bill > H4380

This bill proposes to amend the charter of the city known as the Town of Agawam by removing the specific reference to the Board of Appeals from its municipal charter. The bill requires that the proposed change be submitted to Agawam's qualified voters during the 2025 regular election, where voters will decide whether to accept the amendment through a ballot question. If a majority of voters approve the measure, the charter will be modified to remove the Board of Appeals section, but the city will still be required to establish a zoning board of appeals in accordance with state law (specifically, Section 12 of Chapter 40A of the General Laws). To prepare for the election, the city solicitor must create a fair and concise summary of the proposed charter amendment at least 60 days before the election, ensuring that voters have clear information about the proposed change. This bill essentially allows Agawam to update its charter while maintaining the legally required zoning board function through a separate mechanism.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4380