CHARTER COMMISSION PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release: Jr. October 4, 2011 Contact: Carl Eger, Phone: 536-4735

HOLYOKE ENTERS 21st CENTURY

On November 8, Holyoke voters will make history by voting YES to the Charter question that is on the ballot. By voting YES voters will be mandating an update to Holyokes form of government. When Holyoke voters say YES, they will be updating their charter which is currently 115 years old.

Key recommendations include: reducing the size of the city council from 15 members to 11, creating 7 Ward and 4 At-Large council seats; electing a strong mayor to a 4 year term; creating a finance department wherein the current positions of treasure, auditor, tax collector & assessors are combined and managed by a chief financial officer; creates a human resource department so that all city employee positions are uniform in both qualifications & compensation; establishes a recall provision for all elected officials.

The charter commission, elected by a 3 to 1 margin during the 09 municipal election and consisting of 9 commissioners, has worked tirelessly for 22 months and has submitted its unanimously endorsed proposed charter, which is on the November 8 ballot. A copy of their full report will be mailed by the city council to each registered voter - head of household on or before October 25. A summary is also included.

The question is on the back of the ballot. Both sides are important. The front of the ballot will be the candidates for political offices. On the back you will find the charter question. Vote YES to bring about responsible government through efficiency, accountability & transparency. This is the only time voting citizens of Holyoke will be able to bring about change. It is

time to move Holyoke from the 19th century charter so the City of Holyoke can operate in the 21 century.

A Speakers Bureau of Charter Commission members is available to meet with your group or organization to answer any questions you may have. Appointments are being scheduled. Call Carl Eger at 536-4735. ###