Charter commission hires legal counsel, accepts member resignation and reviews consultant contracts

The Charter Commission voted to retain Harrington Heath to perform a legal review of the draft charter and to advise on compliance with Massachusetts law. The contract includes a not‑to‑exceed review fee of $15,000 and a clause requiring prior approval for expenses over $500; commissioners instructed staff to secure the agreement and complete required procurement checks.

Before that vote, the commission moved to accept the resignation of member Paul Dome; the motion carried by voice vote and the commission agreed to solicit applicants to fill the seat, asking for candidates with knowledge of the charter process. The clerk was asked to publish the application details on the charter webpage.

Commissioners also reviewed the Collins Group contract (originally $38,000 for research and attendance at up to 18 meetings). Members discussed whether remaining Collins work is still needed and noted contract termination terms that could result in partial reimbursement if services are not rendered; staff were asked to confer with the procurement officer on options.

Next steps: staff will proceed with contracting Harrington Heath, review the Collins agreement with procurement for potential adjustments, and accept applications for the vacant commission seat.