Home Rule Charter

Review of Local Government Positions (LWVA)

2017

In March 2016, for the third time since it adopted the representative Town Meeting/Select Board/Town Manager form of government in 1953, Amherst voters approved the creation of a Charter Commission to consider a Home Rule Charter for Amherst. The resulting Home Rule Charter was adopted by Amherst voters in March 2018.

New League Local Government Group

The League of Women Voters will form a new group to study the new Charter form of government and to consider its role. Possible topics of study will include how the new government will work and how citizens can become involved. One outcome might be a revival of the LWVA observer corps.

History of League Positions on Local Government

Proposal to revise LWVA position on local government

Mailing sent to all members, August 2017.

Charter Commission Timeline

The Charter Commission is working towards a referendum date of March 27, 2018, the date of the 2018 Amherst Town Elections.

LWVA Principles of Local Government

Resources on Charter Commissions in Massachusetts

A question concerning the establishment of an Amherst Charter Commission will appear on the ballot for the March 29, 2016, Amherst municipal elections. On the same ballot, residents will vote for up to nine candidates to serve on the Commission. Here are some resources to help you prepare.

Amherst League of Women Voters

A Voice for Citizens, a Force for Change