H 4264 Massachusetts House · 194th Legislature (2025-2026)

An Act establishing a charter for the city of Somerville

This bill establishes Somerville's official municipal charter, which defines the city's governing structure and powers. It creates a city council of 11 members (4 elected at-large and 7 representing specific wards), sets a 2-year term for councilors, and outlines the separation of executive (mayor) and legislative branches. The charter clarifies the city's authority to manage local affairs, including procedures for governance, emergency responses, and public transparency, while ensuring all actions align with Massachusetts law. This document directly affects Somerville residents, city officials, and future local government operations by setting foundational rules for how the city is run.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jul 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jul 16, 2025 Last action Aug 21, 2025
Floor votes

How they voted

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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
8
Key actions
4
Committee
3
Amendments
1
Aug 21, 2025
Lower · Passed
Amended by substitution of bill with the same title, see H4445
lower
Jul 23, 2025
Lower · Passed
Committee reported that the matter be placed in the Orders of the Day for the next sitting
lower
Jul 16, 2025
Lower · Passed
Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Steering, Policy and Scheduling
lower
Jul 16, 2025
Lower · Passed
Reported from the committee on Municipalities and Regional Government
lower
0 primary · 1 co-sponsor

Sponsors

No sponsor information available.