THE CHARTER COMMISSION BALLOT QUESTION--

WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?

What is the Charter Commission recommending?

The nine elected members of the Charter Commission unanimously recommend a shift from a
Town Meeting to a Town Council form of government. Norton voters will select seven, at-large
Town Councilors to serve for staggered terms of three years. In addition, the charter:

 Provides a framework to create a Department of Public Works

 Includes a budget process that emphasizes clear communication and collaboration across
Town government
 Replaces our current Finance Committee with a standing committee of the Town Council
 Establishes procedures for new direct citizen participation in Town Governance

What does my vote mean?

YES NO
 Creates a legislative body that can
vote on an ongoing basis as the need
arises
 Ensures those making decisions are
chosen by every voter and therefore
representative of the needs of the
entire town The current government--and the
 Provides accountability to the problems you identified with it--
townspeople currently lacking with remains exactly the same.
Town Meeting
 Creates a framework for a DPW that
gives the Town Manager and Town
Council oversight and accountability
over the Water and Sewer
Department

Where can I learn more?

The Norton Charter Commission's website (https://www.nortonma.org/charter-commission)
includes more information about the work of the commission including their Final
Report and Final Charter.

Norton taxpayers have a right to a town government that is efficient,

transparent, accountable, and gives a voice to EVERY RESIDENT in Norton.

Vote YES on April 10, 2021