By Alex Reidy

A virtual public meeting of the City of Somerville’s Charter Review Committee took place on Wednesday, April 28. The Committee proposed a new charter and looked through it line by line. They approved an amended version, which was eventually signed by the Governor.

An update on the Collins Center was presented. Currently, the Committee is waiting on a price proposal so they can be hired to review the original charter and find things that can be cleared up and changed in terms of policy.

According to their website, “The Edward J. Collins, Jr. Center for Public Management is dedicated to improving efficiency, effectiveness, governance, and accountability at all levels of government, with a particular focus on state and local government.”

The Committee also discussed a list of values that they want to see from the new charter. Some examples included wanting a city that is just, fair, empowering, effective, accountable, and innovative. A city that is using inclusive language, trustworthiness and, effective budgeting. Discussions also took place regarding what makes a fair and equitable government, one that values transparency and responsiveness.

Budget issues were also addressed, with things like translators and interpreters being paid $35-90 per hour, and tech consultants being paid $1,200 per meeting. The Collins Center invoice would most likely be given in 2022, and so the budget would also need to be adjusted accordingly.

One idea that was offered presented how the Watertown charter review processes were sent to residents by mail with a QR code that they could scan to join in on meetings. This advances the idea that the community needs to provide input on the charter review process.

Educational materials that are accessible for everyone was considered a key component, and the community engagement team was encouraged to start thinking about reaching out to the communities that are traditionally harder connect with. Engaging the community is considered vitally important for getting the budget and the charter reform in the best possible state.

A charter is essentially the local government’s set of rules that they abide by. Currently, the new charter is being designed to supplant the older one, which to many has become outdated.

The City Council, mayor, both state legislatures, and then the governor have to sign off on any changes to the charter. The charter can “alter a form of government so that new form is better aligned with the preferences of citizens, but it can just automatically increase the quality of governmental products and services.” So, essentially it is considered a revision of acts and ordinances on the state level in order to provide a better government.

It was mentioned that it is essential that the charter be passed this year, as Mayor Curtatone is not running for re-election and the next mayor could possibly veto the charter as is their right in the current charter. Currently, Mayor Curtatone supports the charter reform which could possibly lessen the power of the mayor.

The next meeting of the Committee is scheduled for May 13.