Bill > S2322

This bill establishes a process for recalling elected officials in the town of Hawley, allowing registered voters to remove an officer from their position for conduct that significantly harms the town, its citizens, environment, or public image. To initiate a recall, at least 20 registered voters must file a recall affidavit with the town clerk, detailing the grounds for removal. The town clerk then provides petition forms to the voters, which must be signed by at least 25 percent of the town's registered voters and returned within 21 days. If the petition is deemed sufficient, the town clerk notifies the board of selectmen, who then inform the officer in question. If the officer does not resign within five days, the selectmen will order a recall election, to be held between 64 and 90 days later, or coinciding with another scheduled election if feasible. The officer being recalled can run to succeed themselves, and the election procedures will follow existing laws. The incumbent will continue their duties until the recall election, and if recalled, they are removed from office. Ballots will present options to vote for or against the recall, followed by space for candidates to fill the potential vacancy. A recall petition cannot be filed within six months of an officer taking office, in the last six months of their term, or within six months after a previous recall election. Furthermore, individuals who have been recalled or resigned during recall proceedings cannot be reappointed to the same office for one year.