Bill > H4482

This bill establishes a regional fire district for the towns of Charlemont and Rowe in Franklin County, Massachusetts, allowing residents to create a joint fire department through a collaborative governance structure. The bill outlines that qualified voters from both towns can establish a fire district with a five-member prudential committee (serving as fire commissioners) elected through staggered three-year terms, who will have authority to manage district operations, including appointing key personnel like a fire chief, assessors, treasurer, and collector. The district will be funded through annual taxation, with the power to assess and collect taxes similar to municipal governments, and can also borrow funds for necessary expenses, with loan repayments limited to 30 years. The district has the flexibility to potentially expand its service area into adjacent towns through a vote of qualified residents, and inhabitants will be subject to district taxation and benefits. Importantly, as long as the district maintains a sufficient fire department, its residents will be exempt from fire department taxation in their original towns. The bill provides a comprehensive framework for establishing, governing, and financing a regional fire protection service, with provisions ensuring accountability, financial sustainability, and clear operational guidelines.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4482