Bill > H4445

This bill proposes a comprehensive new charter for the city of Somerville, Massachusetts, which fundamentally restructures the city's local government. The proposed charter establishes a strong mayor-council system with 11 city council members (4 at-large and 7 ward-based) and a 9-member school committee, creating clear separation of powers between the executive (mayor) and legislative (city council) branches. Key provisions include non-partisan elections, a two-year term for the mayor and council members, and specific rules for appointments, budget processes, and government operations. The bill also repeals several existing special acts governing the city and includes transition provisions for implementing the new charter. Additionally, the bill mandates two ballot questions: one to adopt the new charter and another to potentially extend the mayor's term from two to four years. The charter emphasizes transparency, community engagement, and ethical governance, with provisions for periodic reviews of the charter, ordinances, and multiple-member bodies. Implementation of various charter provisions will be phased in between 2025 and 2027, allowing time for the city to adapt to the new governmental structure.

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4445