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Charter Change Process

The following documents and links provide information and legal guidance about the available procedures under the Massachusetts Constitution and General Laws for changing a city or town charter. It is important to note that the City of Northampton has a "special act charter" unlike the 90+ communities (including Easthampton and Greenfield) that have adopted more modern home rule charters.

"Several Options Exist for Changing Local Government Structure" Marilyn Contreas, MA Department of Housing and Community Development

Massachusetts General Law Chapter 43B

Forms of Municipal Government/Charters Resource Collection, Massachusetts Municipal Association

1999 & 2001 City Solicitor Charter Change Memos