Bill > S1985

This bill makes several amendments to the Newton city charter, primarily by replacing references to the "Board of Aldermen" with "city council" and restructuring various articles. Key changes include establishing a 24-member city council with both at-large and ward councilors, defining their eligibility, election, and terms, and outlining the powers and duties of the mayor as the chief executive officer, including appointment processes and veto powers. The bill also reorganizes the school committee to have nine members, including the mayor ex officio, and clarifies its powers and duties. Additionally, it introduces provisions for neighborhood service areas, revises procedures for petitions, initiatives, and referendums, and updates definitions within the charter. The overall effect is to modernize and clarify the city's governmental structure and operational procedures.