05/03/2004 Annual Town Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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38-1 Purpose This bylaw shall be known as the "Public Records and Open Meeting bylaw." The purpose of this bylaw is to ensure open access to public records and meetings; to provide for adequate disclosure of matters concerning the public interest and the accountability of Town Boards, Committees and Commissions; and to provide for strengthened local control and enforcement of the Commonwealth's Open Meeting Law, Chapter 39, Sections 23A and B, and the Public Records Law, Chapter 66 of the Massachusetts General Laws, and any related regulations or interpretations issued by the Attorney General or Secretary of State of the Commonwealth in effect at the time of adoption of this bylaw. I. The Town recognized the imp�o�rtance of: ,a) Open public meetings b) Properly posted public meeting notices c) Accurate documentation of the record of all public meetings d) Timely preparation of minutes e) Timely filing of approved minutes with the Town Clerk f) Record retention in accordance with State regulations g) Audio sound (tape) recording of the meetings of key Town bo�ards, committees, and commissions h) Enforcement of the provisions of this bylaw. 38-2 Jurisdiction Because regulatory authorities subject citizens to fees, fines and regulations,, and the Town to possible litigation, the Town's interest is best served by requiring the following to comply with all provisions of this bylaw. The Board of Selectmen, the Board of Assessors, the Planning Board, the Board of Health, the Zoning Board of Appeals, the Conservation Commission, all hereinafter referred to as "Regulatory Authorities." 38-3 Requirements 1. All Regulatory Authorities are required to: a) Post notices of meetings in compliance with Chapter 3,9 Section 23B of Massachusetts General Laws. b) Post a copy of the agenda at the Town Clerk's Office one day prior to such meeting and supply to the public sufficient copies of the agenda at each meeting. 24