[HISTORY: Presented by the Mayor 9-30-2014; approved by the City Council 11-20-2014. Amendments
noted where applicable.]
1.01
Generally.
All agencies shall be under the jurisdiction of the Mayor and
are described in this part of the Administrative Code. The description
of agencies delineates the mission and functions of each agency and
broadly highlights their authorities and responsibilities.
1.02
Coordination of operations.
The Mayor coordinates administration, finance, operations, and
public safety activities by meeting regularly to discuss and coordinate
activities to assure appropriate delivery of municipal services and
to mitigate duplication of services where possible. The Mayor develops
action programs, evaluates program completion, and reviews management,
financial, personnel, and legal issues. Significant attention is paid
towards coordination of work programs, so as to ensure minimal work
disruption and efficient service delivery. The delivery of service
to the public requires coordination and cooperation among the various
divisions, departments, and programs within the City. Department heads
identify those areas of concern where the various agencies can assist
each other in the accomplishment of their mission.
1.03
Department heads.
Each department head shall perform all duties required of their
office or position by state law, the Charter, the Administrative Code,
and the ordinances of the City, and such other duties as may be required
by the Mayor. The officers and department heads shall: be immediately
responsible to the Mayor for the effective administration of their
respective departments and all activities assigned thereto; utilize
sound practices and keep informed as to the latest practices in their
particular fields and implement, with the approval of the Mayor, such
new practices as appear to be of the benefit and service to the public;
submit annual reports of the activities of their department to the
Mayor; establish and maintain systems of filing and indexing records
and reports in sufficient detail to furnish all information necessary
for proper control of department activities and to form a basis for
the periodic reports to the Mayor; supervise all subordinates under
them; be responsible for the proper maintenance of all City property
and equipment used in their departments.
1.04
Staffing.
Each department shall consist of such administrative, clerical,
maintenance, and technical staff that may be authorized by the Mayor
and subject to budget appropriation and, where required, confirmation
by the City Council.
1.05
Bonds.
Officials required by state law shall each, before entering
upon the duties of their respective offices, give a good and sufficient
surety company bond to the City, duly approved by the City Solicitor,
and conditioned upon the faithful performance and discharge of their
respective duties and the proper application and payment of all money
or property coming into their hands by virtue of their offices. The
City shall pay the cost of each official bond. Official bonds of City
officers shall be in the custody of the City Auditor.
1.06
Oath of office.
Any nonelected City officer required to take an oath of office
shall have it administered by the Mayor.
1.07
Setting charges and fees.
Any City office authorized to issue a license, permit, certificate,
or to render a service or perform work for a person or class of persons
may, from time to time, fix reasonable fees for all such licenses,
permits, service or work in accordance with MGL c. 40, § 22F.
2.01
Office of the Mayor.
Established
There shall be an Office of the Mayor under the supervision
of a Mayor elected by the voters of Northampton.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Office of the Mayor supports the chief executive officer
in carrying out the duties set forth in Article 3 of the Charter.
The Mayor's Executive Assistant serves as staff to the License Commission.
[Amended 12-5-2019]
2.02
City Solicitor.
Established
The City Solicitor shall be appointed by the Mayor, subject
to confirmation by the City Council, and shall serve as legal counsel
to the Mayor and the City of Northampton. Employment of the City Solicitor
shall be on such terms and conditions as designated by the Mayor.
In no event shall the Mayor extend the contract of the City Solicitor
beyond the term of office that the Mayor is currently serving.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The City Solicitor shall be admitted to practice as an attorney
in the courts of this commonwealth and the U.S. District Court for
the District of Massachusetts. The City Solicitor shall hold no other
office under the City government while under contract with the municipality
as its solicitor, except for those specifically permitted by ordinance.
The City Solicitor shall provide the City with legal services and,
with consent of the Mayor, may advise any officer or department head
of the City on any question of law connected with the discharge of
his or her official duties. The City Solicitor shall oversee the legal
services budget, including the hiring of outside counsel as required.
The City Solicitor and any outside counsel shall be paid from the
City's legal services budget, subject to appropriation by the City
Council.
2.03
Central Services Department.
Established
There shall be a Central Services Department under the supervision
of a director.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Central Services Department shall be responsible for the
care and maintenance of all municipal property and all municipal buildings,
including the contents thereof, with the exception of parks, recreation
and conservation land, and the Smith Vocational and Agricultural High
School. The department shall coordinate all construction projects
for City buildings and other facilities under the department's jurisdiction.
The department shall be responsible for the maintenance, operation,
and repair of all parking meters on public ways and in all off-street
public parking areas and garages. The department shall be responsible
for snow removal in all off-street public parking areas and garages.
2.04
Office of the City Clerk.
Established
There shall be an Office of the City Clerk under the supervision
of a City Clerk.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The City Clerk is the keeper of all vital records and statistics
of the City and of ancient and public records. The City Clerk is responsible
for all aspects of elections in accordance with federal, state and
local laws. The City Clerk serves as a member of the Board of Registrars
and shall carry out the provisions of MGL c. 51. The City Clerk is
the custodian of the City Seal. The City Clerk administers the oath
of office to elected officers and appointed members of multiple-member
bodies. The City Clerk posts meeting notices as required by Massachusetts
General Law. The City Clerk issues such licenses and permits as may
be provided by law. The City Clerk records all business-related filings,
including state and federal tax liens, Uniform Commercial Code filings,
and business name registration. The City Clerk receives notice of
claims and transmits these claims to the City Solicitor. There shall
be an Assistant City Clerk whose certification or attestation shall
have the same effect as that of the City Clerk.
[Amended 9-2-2021 by Order No. 21.317]
2.05
Human Resources Department.
Established
There shall be a Human Resources Department under the supervision
of a director.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Human Resources Department administers the classification
and compensation plans, collective bargaining agreements and personnel
policies. The department provides advice and assistance to the Mayor
and departmental managers on personnel matters, including position
classification and compensation levels, employee relations, recruitment,
training, employee grievances and discipline. The department establishes
uniform personnel practices and procedures. The department coordinates
affirmative action and equal opportunity programs, ensures compliance
with the Fair Labor Standards Act, and administers insurance programs.
2.06
Information Technology Services Department. [Amended 12-15-2016]
Established
There shall be an Information Technology Services Department
under the supervision of a Chief Information Officer.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Information Technology Services Department provides computer
hardware and software acquisition, telecommunications infrastructure,
information security, maintenance, and support to all City departments
and the Northampton Public Schools. It is further responsible for
computer supplies management, desktop and web publishing, social media
management, and voice and data communications. The department shall
be responsible for systems development and planning, systems modification
and enhancement, operations, central services, and management and
administration of the hardware and software for the geographic information
system. The department shall be responsible for planning, development
and implementation of instructional technology within Northampton
Public Schools in support of the established educational goals. The
department shall be responsible for safeguarding information technology
(IT) resources, achieving confidentiality, integrity and availability
of the data and IT resources used to manage the services provided
by the City. The department is responsible for computer training and
the official City website. The department is the central depository
for all electronic information.
2.07
Office of Planning and Sustainability.
Established
There shall be an Office of Planning and Sustainability under
the supervision of a director.
Authorities and Responsibilities [Amended 12-5-2019]
The Office of Planning and Sustainability identifies and implements
the City's vision for sustainable land use and growth. The office
performs comprehensive and strategic planning, demographic and policy
analysis, historic planning and preservation, open space and recreation
planning and implementation, sustainable transportation planning and
implementation, and environmental project implementation. The office
manages the land use and environmental permitting process. The office
administers the City's Community Development Block Grant (CDBC) program
and coordinates plans for affordable housing, homeless and social
services and the needs of those with disabilities. The Community Development
Planner serves as the City's Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Coordinator.
The office provides administrative, clerical and technical support
to the Planning Board, Conservation Commission, Disability Commission,
Zoning Board of Appeals, Historic District Commission, Central Business
Architecture Committee, Agricultural Commission, and the Community
Preservation Committee.
2.08
Climate Action and Project Administration Department. [Added 2-16-2023 by Administrative Order No. 23.240[1]]
Established
There shall be a Climate Action and Project Administration Department
under the supervision of a director.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Climate Action and Project Administration Department (CAPA)
establishes, maintains, and governs standards for project management
across the City of Northampton. It combines strategic planning for
the City's sustainability and climate change goals, project management
outcomes, and adds a sustainability focus to resource procurement.
The CAPA Department supports and governs the portfolio of key City
process improvement projects. The Department is also responsible for
selecting, managing, and optimizing the project resources and ensuring
projects are aligned with the City's key objectives outlined in sustainability
and other planning documents. CAPA staff works in partnership with
cross-functional departments to form cohesive teams to achieve project
objectives.
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Finance Division
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[1]
Editor's Note: This Administrative Order also renumbered former
paragraphs 2.08 through 2.11 as paragraphs 2.09 through 2.12, respectively.
2.09
Finance Director.
Established
The Finance Director shall be appointed by the Mayor, subject
to confirmation by the City Council.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Finance Director shall oversee the Finance Division and
provide financial management and analysis to the City. The Finance
Director assists the Mayor in development of the annual City budget
and coordinates the annual capital improvement program and tax rate
selling process. The Finance Director supervises and recommends to
the Mayor the appointment of Finance Division department heads and
staff.
2.10
Office of the Assessor.
Established
There shall be an Office of the Assessor under the supervision
of a Principal Assessor.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Office of the Assessor is responsible for the full and fair
market valuation of real and personal property as of January 1 every
year for the purposes of levying property taxes. The office shall
maintain a database on each parcel of property, including name and
address of the owner, measurements of the land and a description of
any structures, as well as their quality and condition. The Office
of the Assessor conducts a City-wide revaluation and recertification
with the Department of Revenue every three years. The Office of the
Assessor is also responsible for the annual submission of the tax
rate recapitulation sheet to the Department of Revenue.
The Office of the Assessor also has the authority to grant abatements
and exemptions to taxpayers, upon a vote of the Board of Assessors.
The office provides administrative, clerical and technical support
to the Board of Assessors.
2.11
Office of the Auditor. [Amended 2-16-2023 by Administrative
Order No. 23.240]
Established
There shall be an Office of the City Auditor under the supervision
of an Auditor.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Office of the Auditor produces financial reports of revenues
and expenditures.
The office examines the books and accounts of all City agencies
entrusted with the receipt, custody or expenditure of funds, and all
original bills and vouchers on which funds have been or may be paid
from the City treasury. The City Auditor verifies the cash balance
of the City treasury and reviews the bank reconciliations. The office
examines all bills, drafts, orders and payrolls, and, if found correct,
draws a warrant upon the treasury for their payment. The office disallows
or refuses to approve for payment any claim found to be fraudulent,
unlawful or in excess of budget. The department, at the close of the
fiscal year, compiles statements showing the amounts appropriated,
and the amounts expended and encumbered from each appropriation during
the preceding fiscal year.
2.12
Office of the Treasurer/Collector.
State law reference: MGL c. 41, § 38A
Established
There shall be an Office of the Treasurer/Collector under the
supervision of a Treasurer/Collector.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Treasurer/Collector manages the City's cash and is responsible
for the deposit, investment and disbursement of City funds. The Treasurer/Collector
collects and enforces the collection of committed taxes, betterments
and other amounts as provided by law. The office certifies as to the
existence of municipal liens, and counts and records parking meter
receipts. The office supervises and coordinates the enforcement and
processing of parking violations, including the duties set forth in
MGL c. 90, § 20A 1/2.
The Treasurer/Collector is authorized to issue debt on behalf
of the City upon approval of the City Council and prepares for the
sale of long-term bonds by working with the City's financial advisor,
bond counsel and the Mayor and Finance Director. The Treasurer/Collector
establishes and maintains an efficient cash management system, including
maintenance of the City's cashbook, and determines the cash flow needs
of the City by timing investments to ensure maximum yield for interest
and planning when borrowing may need to occur. The Treasurer/Collector
is the custodian of all tax title accounts and prepares and maintains
all deeds, conducts sales of land and property and prepares documents
for foreclosures.
The Treasurer/Collector shall be the Treasurer of the City's
Retirement Board. The Treasurer/Collector provides administrative,
clerical and technical support to the Board of Almoners and Trust
Fund Committee.
[Amended 9-3-2015[2]]
[2]
Editor's Note: This Administrative Order also repealed former
2.12, Office of the Treasurer, which immediately followed this subsection.
[Amended 5-19-2022]
3.01
Health and Human Services Department.
Established
There shall be a Health and Human Services Department under
the supervision of a commissioner.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Health and Human Services Department is responsible for
protecting, preserving and promoting the health and the well-being
of the City's residents, particularly the most vulnerable. The department
acts as the agent of the Board of Health in enforcing all related
regulations of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, all related ordinances
and regulations of the City of Northampton, and shall perform any
other duties which may be assigned by state or federal statute, state
or federal regulation, or City ordinance or regulation.
The department provides administrative, clerical and technical
support to the Board of Health.
3.02
Community
Care Department
Established
There shall be a Community Care Department under the Health
and Human Services Department and under the supervision of a director.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Community Care Department is responsible for providing services
for community needs, including trained, civilian emergency response
to mental health, substance use, and other crisis calls.
3.03
Department of Veterans' Services.
State law reference: MGL c. 115, § 10
Established
There shall be a Department of Veterans' Services under the
supervision of a director.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Department of Veterans' Services shall provide assistance
to veterans and/or dependents in obtaining benefits from federal,
state and local programs for veterans and/or their dependents. The
department provides outreach, counseling, medical, employment and
other support services.
4.01
Arts and Culture Department.
Established
There shall be an Arts and Culture Department under the supervision
of a director.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Arts and Culture Department works to fund, promote and present
high-quality, community-based arts programming for the benefit of
artists, residents and visitors to the City of Northampton. The department
works with the Arts Council to perform tasks assigned to local cultural
councils under MGL c. 10, § 58, or successor statutes. The
department coordinates the Paradise City Cultural District under MGL
c. 10, § 58A. The department serves as the City's liaison
to local, regional, and statewide arts and culture organizations.
The department provides administrative, clerical and technical
support to the Arts Council.
4.02
Parks and Recreation Department.
Established
There shall be a Parks and Recreation Department under the supervision
of a director.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for the establishment,
coordination and implementation of community recreation programs.
The department oversees programmatic use of parks and recreation facilities.
The department provides administrative, clerical and technical
support to the Parks and Recreation Commission.
4.03
Senior services.
Established
There shall be a Senior Services Department under the supervision
of a director.
Authorities and Responsibilities [Amended 12-5-2019]
Senior services operates the City's senior center to provide
services for the enjoyment of residents aged 55 or older within the
City. The department is responsible for outreach to seniors in the
community. The department develops health, cultural and recreational
programs for seniors.
The department provides administrative, clerical and technical
support to the Council on Aging.
5.01
Building Department.
State law reference: MGL c. 143, § 3
Established
There shall be a Building Department under the supervision of
a Building Commissioner.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Building Department provides services related to public
safety, environmental, and quality of life concerns. The department
is responsible for building, plumbing, electrical, and gas inspections.
The department reviews plans, issues permits, conducts inspections,
enforces zoning ordinances and investigates complaints. The Sealer
of Weights and Measures, Inspector of Wires, and Inspector of Gas
Piping and Gas Appliances, appointed by the Mayor to carry out the
duties set forth in MGL c. 41, § 85, MGL c. 166, §§ 32
through 34, and MGL c. 143, § 3O, respectively, shall be
employees of the department. All permits issued, inspections made
and enforcement conducted by the department shall be in accordance
with governing provisions of Massachusetts General Law, Code of Massachusetts
Regulations and City ordinances.
5.02
Fire/Rescue Department.
Established
There shall be a Fire/Rescue Department under the supervision
of a Fire Chief.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Fire/Rescue Department provides fire, rescue and emergency
medical services to the City. The department investigates the causes
of all fires and provides written reports of all suspected arson,
inspects all buildings and structures as provided for by the State
Fire Code, and provides for the issuance and renewal of certificates
of occupancy.
5.03
Police Department.
Established
There shall be a Police Department under the supervision of
a Police Chief.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Police Department is responsible for the protection of life
and property, the preservation of peace, order and safety, the safeguarding
of constitutional guarantees, the prevention of crime, and the detection
and arrest of offenders. The department investigates incidents and
is empowered to enforce laws and ordinances. The Police Department
shall act as the agent of the Northampton License Commission under
the provisions of MGL c. 138, § 63, as amended.
5.04
Public Safety Communications Center.
Established
There shall be a Public Safety Communications Center under the
supervision of a director.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Public Safety Communications Center is responsible for the
receipt and appropriate dispatch of all public safety service requests,
including, but not limited to, calls for police, fire, emergency medical
services or animal control services. The center is responsible for
the operation and implementation of the City's reverse 911 notification
system and provides twenty-four-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week communications.
6.01
Department of Public Works.
Established
There shall be a Department of Public Works under the supervision
of a director.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Department of Public Works is responsible for design, engineering,
maintenance and repair of all public works infrastructure. The Department
shall be made up of the following divisions: Administration and Engineering;
Highway; Forestry, Parks and Cemeteries; Water; Wastewater; and Solid
Waste. The City's Tree Warden, appointed by the Mayor to carry out
the duties set forth in MGL c. 87, shall be an employee of the Department
under the supervision of the Director. The Department oversees the
City's enterprise funds for water, sewer, stormwater, and solid waste
and is responsible for billing. The Department makes annual recommendations
to the Mayor for water and sewer rates, which shall be subject to
the approval of the City Council. [Amended 12-5-2019]
The department provides administrative, clerical and technical
support to the Public Shade Tree Commission and the Transportation
and Parking Commission.
[Amended 7-14-2016]
7.01
Fence Viewer.
State law reference: MGL c. 49, § 1
Established
The Mayor, subject to confirmation by the City Council, shall
annually appoint two or more Fence Viewers, to hold office for one
year and until successors are qualified.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Fence Viewer shall perform all tasks assigned under MGL
c. 49.
7.02
Weighers of Coal.
State law reference: MGL c. 94, § 238
Established
The Mayor shall annually appoint Weighers of Coal.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Weighers of Coal shall perform all tasks assigned under
MGL c. 94, § 238.
7.03
Weighers of Hay.
State law reference: MGL c. 94, § 236
Established
The Mayor shall appoint Weighers of Hay for a term not to exceed
one year.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Weighers of Hay shall perform all tasks assigned under MGL
c. 94, § 236.
1.01
Generally.
This part of the Administrative Code describes all multiple-member
bodies whose members are appointed by the Mayor, and further delineates
manner and time of appointment, terms of appointment generally and
authorities and responsibilities. The City's representatives to regional
governmental boards and committees shall, unless the law establishing
such a committee provides otherwise, be appointed by the Mayor.
1.02
Multiple-member bodies.
The Mayor may, by administrative order, reorganize, consolidate,
create, merge, divide, or abolish multiple-member bodies of the City.
Administrative orders establishing multiple-member bodies shall specify
the following: membership, term of office and authorities and responsibilities.
Multiple-member bodies are City agencies as that term is defined in
the Charter.
1.03
Method of appointment; removal; term of office.
The Mayor appoints all members of multiple-member bodies, subject
to confirmation by the City Council as provided in City Charter Section
2-10. Unless otherwise provided by law or administrative order, the
terms of office of multiple-member bodies are arranged so that 1/3
of the terms, or as nearly that number as may be possible, shall expire
each year; vacancies are filled in the same manner of appointment
for the remainder of the term. In the case of multiple-member bodies
with membership that includes elected officials, the Mayor shall seek
appointment recommendations from the President or Chair of the elected
body. Unless otherwise provided by law, the length of term shall be
three years and appointments shall be effective on the first day of
July and shall expire the last day of June. Members may be removed
by the Mayor for such cause as the Mayor deems sufficient.
[Amended 7-14-2016]
1.04
Oath of office.
All members of multiple-member bodies shall take the oath of
office within four weeks of their appointment and must take the oath
of office prior to entering upon the duties of their office. The City
Clerk shall administer the oath of office.
1.05
Meetings.
All appointed multiple-member bodies of the City shall meet
regularly at the times and places that the body, by its own rules,
shall prescribe. Special meetings of any multiple-member body shall
be held on the call of the chair or by a majority of the members of
the body. Notice of the meeting shall be posted as required by law.
Except as may otherwise be authorized by law, all meetings of all
multiple-member bodies shall at all times be open to the public. Meetings
shall provide a reasonable opportunity for residents to offer public
comment.
1.06
Meeting documents and submissions; rules and regulations.
Each appointed multiple-member body shall determine its own
rules and order of business within the bounds of this code. Each multiple-member
body shall provide for the keeping of agenda, minutes and related
submissions of its proceedings. All such documents shall be a public
record and certified copies shall be placed on file in the office
of the City Clerk within 15 days of approval.
1.07
Quorum.
A majority of all voting members of a multiple-member body constitute
a quorum unless some other number is provided by law or by ordinance.
No multiple-member body shall meet in absence of a quorum. The City
has accepted remote participation as an option for meeting participation,
which shall be exercised in accordance with 940 CMR 29.10.
1.08
Residency.
Unless otherwise allowed by law, regulation, Charter or Administrative
Code, all members of multiple-member bodies shall be residents of
the City at all times during that member's term of office. If a member
of a multiple-member body removes from the City during the term for
which appointed, such seat shall immediately be deemed vacant and
shall be filled under Section 3-3 of the Charter.
1.09
Multiple-member body internal organization. [Amended 12-5-2019]
Unless otherwise specified by this Administrative Code, each
multiple-member body shall annually elect from its membership a chair
and vice chair, and such other officer or officers as are deemed necessary
or as is required by law. The annual election shall occur at the first
regular meeting after July 1. The Mayor and City Clerk shall be notified
of the officers of each body upon their election. The chair shall
preside over all meetings of the multiple-member body, and is the
official representative of the multiple-member body in all proceedings
before the City Council and other officials in the City. The vice
chair performs the chair's functions in the absence of the chair.
1.10
Setting charges and fees.
Any multiple-member body authorized to issue a license, permit,
certificate, or to render a service or perform work for a person or
class of persons, may, from time to time, fix reasonable fees for
all such licenses, permits, service or work in accordance with MGL
c. 40, § 22F.
1.11
Authority to establish subcommittees.
Each multiple-member body may, by a majority vote of its membership,
establish subcommittees of the multiple-member body for the purpose
of addressing a particular issue or issues. A report of their activities
shall regularly be made to the full multiple-member body. Each subcommittee
so established shall observe laws relevant to the keeping of public
records, the Open Meetings Law, and any other applicable law, Charter
or administrative order.
1.12
Authority of multiple-member bodies.
Multiple-member bodies may be:
Advisory: Wherein the body has no legal
authority to promulgate rules or regulations, decide individual cases
or enact policy; or
Regulatory: Wherein the body has legal
authority to promulgate rules and regulations, set charges and fees,
decide individual cases and enact policy; or
Adjudicatory: Wherein the body has legal
authority to hear and decide the rights and obligations of individual
applicants.
Multiple-member bodies may be combinations of advisory, regulatory,
and adjudicatory.
Established
There shall be an Agricultural Commission, consisting of seven
members as follows: four members whose prime source of income is derived
from farming or agricultural-based enterprises; and three members
who have small- or medium-sized farms, own agricultural land, no more
than one representative of an agriculture-related organization, and/or
those who have been nominated by 10 farmers. Members are not required
to have residency in Northampton, provided they own or manage agricultural
land in the City.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Agricultural Commission shall serve as facilitators for
encouraging the pursuit of agriculture in Northampton; promote agricultural-based
economic opportunities in the City; act as mediators, advocates, educators,
and/or negotiators on farming issues; work for preservation of prime
agricultural lands; and pursue all initiatives appropriate to creating
a sustainable agricultural community.
The Agricultural Commission is an advisory multiple-member body
of the City.
[Amended 12-15-2016]
Established
There shall be a Whiting Street Fund Committee consisting of
five members.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Whiting Street Fund Committee shall advise the Mayor on
the distribution of the income earned on the funds held in trust by
the City in accordance with the will of the late Whiting Street, "for
the relief and comfort of the worthy poor" of Northampton.
The Committee shall work with the Treasurer/Collector to establish
a process for making annual recommendations to the Mayor for the distribution
of funds to nonprofit agencies for the sole purpose of providing direct
financial assistance to low-income Northampton residents and, thereafter,
to recommend annually one or more nonprofit agencies to which the
funds should be distributed. Pursuant to the will, the total annual
distribution shall be restricted to interest earned on the trust fund.
The Whiting Street Fund Committee is an advisory multiple-member
body of the City.
State law reference: MGL c. 10, § 58
Established
There shall be an Arts Council consisting of 15 voting members.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Arts Council works to fund, promote and present high-quality,
community-based arts programming for the benefit of artists, residents
and visitors to the City of Northampton. The Arts Council shall also
perform all other tasks assigned to local cultural councils under
MGL c. 10, § 58, or successor statutes.
The Arts Council is an advisory, regulatory and adjudicatory
multiple-member body of the City.
State law reference: MGL c. 41, § 24
Established [Amended 12-5-2019]
There shall be a Board of Assessors consisting of three members.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Board of Assessors is responsible for the full and fair
market valuation of real and personal property as of January 1 each
year for the purpose of levying taxes. The Board of Assessors provides
all necessary information to the City Council in preparation for the
annual classification hearing. The board hears and decides all questions
relating to the abatement of taxes levied by it. The board has all
of the other powers, duties and responsibilities that are given to
Boards of Assessors by General Laws.
The Board of Assessors is an advisory, regulatory and adjudicatory
multiple-member body of the City.
Established
There shall be a Central Business Architecture Committee consisting
of five members and two alternates. Members shall include at least
one of each of the following: one person from two nominations made
by the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce; one person in the
building trades or construction industry; one person from two nominations
made by the Association of Realtors covering Northampton; one architect;
and one person from two nominations made by the Historic District
Commission.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Central Business Architecture Committee shall have the authority
to adopt reasonable rules, regulations, and forms and to revise the
design guidelines manual to aid in the administration of the central
business architectural ordinance chapter, and to reclassify building
types shown in said ordinance.
The Central Business Architecture Committee is a regulatory
and adjudicatory multiple-member body of the City.
State law reference: MGL c. 44B, § 5
Established
There shall be a Community Preservation Committee consisting
of nine voting members. Membership on the committee shall include
one current member of the Conservation Commission, one current member
of the Historical Commission, one current member of the Planning Board,
one current member of the Parks and Recreation Commission, one current
member of the Housing Authority, two members to be elected at large
for four-year terms, two members of the public.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The committee carries out the duties prescribed in MGL c. 44B,
§ 5, and City ordinance.
The Community Preservation Committee is an advisory multiple-member
body of the City.
State law reference: MGL c. 40, § 8C
Established
There shall be a Conservation Commission consisting of seven
members.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Conservation Commission protects, promotes and enhances
the quality of the natural resources within the City, especially wetlands
and water resources. The Conservation Commission is responsible for
the preservation and protection of floodplains, water bodies and other
wetlands within the City. The commission is responsible for the stewardship
of the City's conservation lands. The commission has all of the other
powers, duties and responsibilities that are given to Conservation
Commissions by the General Laws and City ordinances.
The Conservation Commission is an advisory, regulatory and adjudicatory
multiple-member body of the City.
State law reference: MGL c. 40, § 8B
Established
There shall be a Council on Aging consisting of nine members.
[Amended 3-30-2023]
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Council on Aging shall advise the Senior Services Department
on programs and services designed to meet the needs of City of Northampton
residents aged 55 or older. The council has all of the other powers,
duties and responsibilities that are given to Councils on Aging by
the General Laws.
The Council on Aging is an advisory multiple-member body of
the City.
State law reference: MGL c. 40, § 8J
Established
There shall be a Disability Commission consisting of nine members.
A majority of commission members shall consist of people with disabilities;
one member shall be a member of the immediate family of a person with
a disability, and one member of said commission shall be an elected
official. The City's Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Coordinator
shall be the liaison to the commission.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The commission shall research local problems of people with
disabilities; advise and assist municipal officials and employees
in ensuring compliance with state and federal laws and regulations
that affect people with disabilities; coordinate and/or carry out
programs designed to meet the problems of people with disabilities
in coordination with programs of the Massachusetts Office on Disability;
review and make recommendations about policies, procedures, services,
activities and facilities of departments, boards, and agencies of
the City of Northampton as they affect people with disabilities; provide
information, referrals, guidance and technical assistance to individuals,
public agencies, businesses and organizations in all matters pertaining
to disabilities, and coordinate activities of other local groups organized
for similar purposes.
The Disability Commission is an advisory multiple-member body
of the City.
Established [Amended 12-5-2019; 11-16-2023]
There shall be an Energy and Sustainability Commission consisting
of 12 members, as follows; Director of Climate Action and Project
Administration, or their designee; Director of Central Services, or
their designee; Director of Public Works, or their designee; Director
of Planning and Sustainability, or their designee; Building Commissioner,
or their designee; Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School Facilities
Director, or their designee, two elected officials; and four members
of the public. The Director of Climate Action and Project Administration
shall serve as Chair, and the Director of Planning and Sustainability
shall serve as a Vice Chair. The Energy and Sustainability Officer
shall serve as staff advisor to the Commission.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Energy and Sustainability Commission shall advise and assist
the City in identifying, developing, implementing, and managing programs
and policies for achieving energy efficiency and energy resource sustainability,
and guard against effects of energy resource disruption/depletion
and climate change in all of Northampton's public and private sectors
(e.g., municipal, business, commercial, residential, agricultural,
and institutional). The commission shall advise and assist with achieving
the goals of the Sustainable Northampton Plan, the City's climate
change protection commitments, and other City plans/goals.
The Energy and Sustainability Commission is an advisory multiple-member
body of the City.
[Amended 5-19-2022]
State law reference: MGL c. 111, § 26
City Charter Article 6A
Established
There shall be a Board of Health consisting of five members,
one of whom shall be a physician.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Board of Health preserves and maintains the City's public
health standards and protects its environmental resources through
community education, and by promulgating reasonable rules and regulations
pertaining to those matters placed under its jurisdiction by state
law or City ordinances. The board reviews and recommends Health and
Human Services Department policies and programs for implementation
by the Health and Human Services Department. The board has all of
the other powers, duties and responsibilities that are given to Boards
of Health by the General Laws and City ordinances.
The Board of Health is an advisory, regulatory and adjudicatory
multiple-member body of the City.
State law reference: MGL c. 40, § 8D, and MGL c. 40C,
§ 14
Established
There shall be an Historical Commission which shall consist
of seven members as follows: at least one member who resides or owns
property in the district; one member appointed from two nominations
submitted by the Northampton Historical Society; one member appointed
from two nominees from the Western Massachusetts Chapter of the American
Institute of Architects; one member appointed from two nominees from
the Realtor Association of Pioneer Valley, the local board of realtors.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Historical Commission shall have all powers and duties in
accordance with MGL c. 40, § 8C, and all the power and duties
of historic districts in accordance with MGL c. 40C. The commission
shall have the authority to adopt such rules and regulations not inconsistent
with the provisions of MGL c. 40C. The commission shall carry out
the preservation, promotion and development of the historical assets
of the City.
The Historical Commission is an advisory, regulatory and adjudicatory
multiple-member body of the City.
Established [Amended 12-5-2019]
There shall be a Housing Partnership consisting of 11 members,
consisting of those representing the interests of people with low
and moderate incomes, the housing and real estate industry, City boards
and commissions involved in housing policy and/or projects, including
but not limited to the Planning Board and the Zoning Board of Appeals.
The partnership will strive to achieve maximum diversity in its membership.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Housing Partnership shall assist in the preservation and
development of low- and moderate-income housing stock. All housing
proposals submitted for the use of community development block grant
funds shall be reviewed by the partnership and the partnership shall
issue a recommendation on such proposals to the Mayor.
The Housing Partnership is an advisory multiple-member body
of the City.
[Amended 11-16-2023]
Established
There shall be a Human Rights Commission consisting of seven
members, one of whom shall be a member of the Disability Commission.
Membership shall, as far as it is practicable, be selected so as to
ensure representation from those classes protected under state and
federal law, including, but not limited to, race, color, religious
creed, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, ancestry,
sexual orientation or public benefit status.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Human Rights Commission shall act to promote human rights
in the City of Northampton. The commission shall advocate and be an
information resource for the rights guaranteed pursuant to local,
state, and/or federal law on the basis of race or color, gender, physical
or mental ability, religion, socioeconomic status, ethnic or national
origin, sexual identification or orientation, or age for all persons
within the City of Northampton. The Mayor and City Council may refer
issues pertaining to human rights to the commission for review and
recommendation. The commission may organize programs and events to
educate about human rights.
The Human Rights Commission is an advisory multiple-member body
of the City.
State law reference: MGL c. 138, § 4
Established
There shall be a License Commission consisting of three persons
in accordance with MGL c. 138. Members shall serve for six-year terms
from the first Monday in June.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The License Commission acts as the licensing board for the City
with all powers to grant, suspend, or revoke licenses and permits
for alcoholic beverages as provided in MGL c. 138. The commission
has the power to grant, suspend or revoke all other licenses not otherwise
provided by law.
The License Commission is an advisory, regulatory and adjudicatory
multiple-member body of the City.
State law reference: MGL c. 44, § 55C
Established
There shall be a Municipal Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board
of Trustees made up of five members, one of whom shall be the Mayor.
Trustees shall serve two-year terms.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Municipal Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board of Trustees
shall work to provide for the creation and preservation of affordable
housing in Northampton for the benefit of low- and moderate-income
households. The Board manages the Municipal Affordable Housing Trust
Fund and has all other authority delegated to it under MGL c. 44,
§ 55C.
The Affordable Housing Trust is an advisory and adjudicatory
multiple-member body of the City.
Established
There shall be a Parks and Recreation Commission consisting
of nine members.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Parks and Recreation Commission advises the Parks and Recreation
Department on development and implementation of recreational programming
for parks, playgrounds, playfields, indoor recreation centers and
other recreation areas and facilities owned or controlled by the City.
The Parks and Recreation Commission is an advisory multiple-member
body of the City.
State law reference: MGL c. 41, § 81A
Established
There shall be a Planning Board consisting of seven members
and two associate members. The associate members shall serve in the
absence of a full member to the extent permitted by law.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Planning Board develops and recommends land use policies,
design standards and amendment to zoning code and subdivision plans.
The board reviews and approves the subdivision plans for the City,
decides applications for special permits and site plan review as provided
in the zoning ordinance. The board has all of the other powers, duties
and responsibilities that are given to Planning Boards by the General
Laws and ordinances.
The Planning Board is an advisory, regulatory and adjudicatory
multiple-member body of the City.
[1]
Editor's Note: Former Sec. 20.0, Public Works Commission,
was repealed 7-14-2016.
State law reference: MGL c. 121B, § 4
Established
There shall be a Redevelopment Authority consisting of five
members. Members shall serve a term of five years. The Mayor shall
appoint four members; the fifth member shall be appointed by the Department
of Housing and Community Development.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The authority has all duties and responsibilities as set forth
in MGL c. 121B, § 4.
State law reference: MGL c. 51, § 15
Established
There shall be a Board of Registrars consisting of four persons
in accordance with MGL c. 51, § 15. Members shall serve
three-year terms beginning in April.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Board of Registrars shall hold voter registration sessions,
including those required by MGL c. 51, § 42C, certify the
signatures on nomination papers and petitions, hold hearings and decide
disputes over signatures on nomination papers, prepare annual list
of persons, and employ poll workers and ballot counters. The board
has all of the other powers, duties and responsibilities that are
given to Boards of Registrars of Voters by the General Laws.
The Board of Registrars is a regulatory and adjudicatory multiple-member
body of the City.
[Amended 7-14-2016; 10-15-2020]
Established
There shall be an Urban Forestry Commission consisting of seven
members as follows: Tree Warden plus six members of the public. The
Tree Warden shall serve as Chair and one of the members of the public
shall be elected Vice Chair.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Urban Forestry Commission preserves, protects and promotes
City shade trees. The Commission advises and assists the Tree Warden
and Mayor in researching and developing plans, programs and policies
for achieving a tree canopy that supports Northampton's goals of public
health, beautification, economic and environmental sustainability,
and resilience in the face of climate change. The Commission reviews
and makes recommendations on ordinance and zoning regulations related
to trees. It receives and reviews input from City residents, businesses,
and neighborhoods on issues or concerns related to trees, makes planting
and maintenance recommendations guided by industry best practices,
and works to promote knowledge and awareness of the benefits of an
actively managed urban forest.
The Urban Forestry Commission is an advisory multiple-member
body of the City.
[Amended 12-5-2019]
Established
There shall be a Transportation and Parking Commission consisting
of 11 members as follows: Director of Public Works, or their designee;
Director of Planning and Sustainability, or their designee; Police
Chief, or their designee; Parking Enforcement Administrator, or their
designee; two elected officials; and five members of the public. The
Director of Public Works shall serve as Chair and the Police Chief
shall serve as Vice Chair. The City's Traffic Engineer shall serve
as advisors to the Commission.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Transportation and Parking Commission advises the Mayor
and City Council on the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of
its multi-modal transportation system for automobiles, bus transit,
passenger rail, bicycles, and pedestrians. The Commission researches
and recommends City policies related to transportation and/or parking.
The Commission shall review and make recommendations on any ordinance
related to transportation and/or parking referred to it by the Mayor
or City Council. The Commission shall receive and review input from
City residents, businesses, and neighborhoods on issues or concerns
related to transportation and/or parking, including traffic calming
requests administered by the Department of Public Works.
The Transportation and Parking Commission is an advisory multiple-member
body of the City.
Established
There shall be a Trust Fund Committee consisting of three members.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Trust Fund Committee shall make recommendations to the City
Treasurer on Northampton's trust fund investments to realize the best
possible gain while maintaining a balance between risk and return
with the primary objectives of preservation of capital, maintenance
of security of trust funds and investments, maximization of total
return for each trust fund, efficient disbursement of funds on an
equitable basis, and effective collection of all due monies. The committee
shall also advise the Treasurer on the other post-employee benefits
trust fund.
The Trust Fund Committee is an advisory multiple-member body
of the City.
State law reference: MGL c. 40, § 8E
Established
There shall be a Youth Commission consisting 21 members, from
the age of 13 through 18.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Youth Commission shall carry out programs which may be designed
or established to meet the opportunities, challenges and problems
of youth of said City or town and in conjunction with any similar
or related programs of any agency of the commonwealth or any agency
of the federal government. The commission shall actively involve youth
in issues affecting them and give advice to the Mayor and the City
Council. The commission shall be available to act as a forum for youth
concerns about adults and adult concerns about youth.
The Youth Commission is an advisory multiple-member body of
the City.
State law reference: MGL c. 40A, § 12
Established
There shall be a Zoning Board of Appeals consisting of three
members and two associate members.
Authorities and Responsibilities
The Zoning Board of Appeals hears and decides applications for variances, special permits, comprehensive permits and appeals relating to actions or refusals to act by the Zoning Enforcement Officer. The Board has all of the other powers, duties and responsibilities that are given to Zoning Boards of Appeals by the General Laws. Each of the board members shall serve as a zoning administrator on a rotating basis pursuant to MGL c. 40A, § 14, and City ordinance § 350-4.10E.
The Zoning Board of Appeals is a regulatory and adjudicatory
multiple-member body of the City.
