It's Town Meeting Time in Canton MA
Canton MA has an Open Town Meeting form of government. There is a five-member Board of Selectmen who run the town and oversee the town administrator, but the legislative body is made up of the citizens of Canton. All registered voters in Canton MA are eligible to attend and vote at the Annual Town Meeting.
Annual Town Meeting commences this coming Monday, April 25th at 7:30 pm at Canton High's Morse Auditorium. It runs until approximately 11:00 pm and runs every consecutive Monday and Wednesday until all items in the 100-plus page Warrant. The Warrant is mailed to every home in Canton a month or so prior to Town Meeting so they can find out what will be discussed and voted on at the meeting. The deadline for Warrant articles is usually in January, to allow time for printing and mailing.
At Annual Town Meeting, the town's budget for the upcoming fiscal year is voted on and approved. In addition, there are usually various zoning articles to be voted on, along with a variety of other articles. All of these have been previously presented to the Town's Finance Committee, who has taken a position of being in favor of or opposed to the article. However, the final decision is up to the voters.
Annual Town Meeting can be a lively event, with some matters being more controversial than others. Voters who wish to speak on a matter have the opportunity to step up to one of the microphones to address the body. There is a moderator who maintains control and ensures that the proper procedures are followed. There are often last-minute substitutions and interesting debates. For those unable to attend, the meeting is broadcast live by Canton Community Cable. However, if you are not there, you cannot vote!
I find it to be an interesting and entertaining event to attend, not to mention my civic responsibility. How often does a citizen get to make decisions that will impact the quality of life in his or her community? So, you will find me this Monday and Wednesday evening at Canton MA's Annual Town Meeting. Will I see you there?
Considering a move to Canton MA? Contact your Canton MA Buyer Agent to find out more about Canton MA and homes for sale in Canton MA.
Comments(1)