Bill > S2106

This bill authorizes the town of Southbridge to place a question on the ballot regarding amendments to its charter, which is the foundational document outlining the town's governmental structure and operations. Specifically, the bill proposes to limit elected or appointed members of quasi-judicial boards, such as the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Board of Health, to serving on only one such board during their term. It also modifies the requirements for the Director of Public Works, removing the stipulation that they must be a licensed Professional Engineer and clarifying their appointment and reporting structure to the Town Manager and confirmation by the Town Council. Furthermore, the bill clarifies that the Director of Public Works can be removed similarly to other Department Heads. It also establishes that town offices and agencies cannot hire or consult with attorneys unless authorized by the Town Manager, who will designate special counsel when legal expertise is needed after consulting with the Town Attorney. Finally, the bill changes the date of the town's regular election from the last Tuesday in June to the second Tuesday in June.