Bill > S2693

This bill establishes a comprehensive new charter for the city of Lynn, Massachusetts, replacing several previous legislative acts and creating a detailed framework for city governance. The charter establishes a government structure with a strong mayor-council system, consisting of an 11-member city council (4 at-large and 7 ward councilors) and a mayor elected citywide for a 4-year term. The bill outlines extensive provisions for city operations, including detailed processes for budgeting, elections, voter participation, and administrative organization. Key innovations include robust initiative and referendum procedures, a recall mechanism for elected officials, and specific rules for government transparency and accountability. The charter emphasizes principles of home rule, representative democracy, and public engagement, providing a comprehensive blueprint for local self-government that includes provisions for periodic charter review, administrative reorganization, and clear delineation of powers between the executive and legislative branches. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage and provides for a gradual transition of existing government structures, with the mayor required to develop an administrative code within 180 days and establish various administrative procedures to implement the new charter.

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2693