Rep. Rich Haggerty

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Reading's Home Rule Charter to clarify voting rules, vacancy procedures, and recall processes. It redefines "Majority Vote" to require a majority of those present and voting (not the full body), updates rules for removing Town Meeting members who miss sessions or move precincts, and sets experience requirements for appointing a Town Manager (3 years as manager or 5 years equivalent). It also revises recall petitions to require 2% of registered voters (with 25 from each precinct) and sets signature thresholds for petitions. These changes affect how town meetings operate, how vacancies are filled, and the qualifications for the Town Manager position.

Maddy summaryHD 5630 would allow the town of Reading to create a property tax exemption for seniors meeting specific income, age, and residency requirements. It directly affects seniors aged 65+ (or 60+ with a 65+ partner) who own and live in their Reading home for 10+ years, have income qualifying for the state's circuit breaker tax credit, and limited assets. The exemption amount would be set annually by Reading's select board at 100-150% of the qualifying circuit breaker credit, applied only to the primary residence. Applicants must reapply yearly with income and asset documentation, and the exemption expires after three years. The town would fund this through proportional adjustments to the residential tax levy.