This Petition is to make North Adams a Vibtant Forward Moving Community.

Change.org Petition Click Here
Growing up in the serene Areas of Massachusetts, I always believed in the power of community and the pursuit of a fulfilling life—a core American value enshrined in our Declaration of Independence. A government that is responsive, transparent, and capable of adapting swiftly to the needs of its people is crucial in our shared journey towards what we fondly call our "Pursuit to Happiness."

However, under the current mayoral system in our city, it often feels like the voices of the average citizen are drowned out amidst bureaucratic and political noise. Our cherished ideals of transparency, accountability, and community-driven governance seem compromised. The existing system is rife with inefficiencies, leading to a disconnect between city officials and the communities they are meant to serve.

A town manager, unlike an elected mayor, is appointed based on professional credentials and a proven track record in public administration, ensuring a level of competency and non-partisanship that is often lacking in politically-driven mayoral governance. Town managers are typically employed by the city council and are accountable to them, creating a system of checks and balances that are vital for a more democratic and responsive system of governance.

This is not just an administrative tweak; it is a profound change that can lead to a more vibrant and rewarding future for all of us. By adopting a council-manager form of government, we have the opportunity to prioritize expertise over political affiliations, improving service delivery and the overall quality of life for our residents.

The evidence supporting this change is compelling. Numerous towns and cities that have implemented the town manager system report higher efficiency, better fiscal management, and increased community satisfaction.  According to a study by the International City/County Management Association, municipalities with a town manager are often better equipped to handle challenges and enact policies that reflect the needs and aspirations of their citizens.

By signing this petition, you join a community of forward-thinking citizens advocating for more effective and accountable city management. This is about our commitment to create a Franklin that works for everyone and embodies the essence of what it means to pursue happiness collectively. Let's work towards a future where our governance system aligns with our values and aspirations.
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Please sign this petition to support the vital change from a city mayor system to a town manager system to embrace a more rewarding and vibrant future for North Adams.

    Petition to amend North Adams charter from a city/town mayor to a city/town manager
    Be it enacted by the People, and by their authority: Chapter 54 of the General Laws is hereby amended by adding the following Section 163: “

    ​To affirm the integrity of the electoral process, each prospective voter before being given a ballot on election day at a polling place, each prospective voter must present identification to a properly designated poll worker, which identification must have been issued by a branch of the United States government or of the Commonwealth or by a tribal authority recognized by either the United States or the Commonwealth and must include a picture of the prospective voter. Should any person fail to present such identification, such person may choose to execute an affidavit attesting to their identity and residence, in which case such person shall be given a ballot. “Each prospective voter voting pursuant to Section 25B of Chapter 54 of the General Laws shall include in the inner envelope with their completed ballot a copy of their identification, which identification must have been issued by a branch of the United States government or of the Commonwealth or by a tribal authority recognized by either the United States or the Commonwealth and must include a picture of the prospective voter. Should any person fail to include such identification, such person must attest to their identity and residence on the affidavit of compliance.” We have personally reviewed the above final text of this Initiative Petition, fully subscribe to its contents, and agree to be one of the original signers ofthe petition.