Monday, January 11, 2010
Hamilton Selectmen Bill Signed Into Law
Today Governor Patrick signed H.4294, “An Act Increasing the Membership of the Board of Selectmen in the Town of Hamilton”, into law. The newly signed law, now Chapter 204 of the Acts of 2009, that I and Representative Hill sponsored increases the number of selectmen from three to five members.
This bill accomplishes an important change that reflects the town’s desire for a modern and effective system of government. Through a strong partnership between our legislative delegation and local officials we have been able to meet a major goal developed by the government study committee and endorsed by town meeting.
House Bill 4294 also adjusts the selectmen’s term cycle so that not more than two selectman terms run concurrently. Following at least 65 days, at the next annual town election one selectman will be elected to an initial 2-year term and the other member will be elected to a 3-year term. Hamilton follows several municipalities which have recently expanded their boards of selectmen from 3 to 5 members including both Georgetown and West Newbury. Adding two additional members to the town’s board of selectmen will allow the town to tap into increased specializations.
011010 Chapter204Actsof2009
