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In a vote, 7-3, the City Council on Monday approved a Home Rule Petition to the State Legislature that would change the City Charter to enact term limits on Councilors, School Committee members and the mayor.
The measure came somewhat out of the blue by Councilor Anthony DiPierro two weeks ago, when he introduced it at the April 26 Council meeting. However, such a thing has been discussed for several years off and on.
Those voting against the measure were Councilors Fred Capone, Gerly Adrien and John Hanlon. Those voting in favor were Councilors DiPierro, Rich Dell Isola, Rose DiFlorio, Jimmy Tri Le, Mike Marchese, Stephanie Martins, and Michael McLaughlin. The measure did require a super-majority (8 votes), but with Councilor Wayne Matewsky out on medical leave, it meant only seven votes were required. The matter goes to the State Legislature where it must be approved by both branches and signed by Gov. Charlie Baker.
Council President Wayne Matewsky doled out Committee assignments last week, with most everyone finding a place on a Committee.
Matewsky has said under his leadership this year there will be fewer Committees of the Whole and more Committee meetings. He said he would rely on the Committee system to work out the details of issues, and that would hopefully shorten Council meetings and bring about better legislation in a more timely manner.
He announced five committees for the coming legislative year, with a revived Celebrations Committee still under consideration.
The Budget Committee will be chaired by Councilor Michael McLaughlin and co-chaired by Councilor Anthony DiPierro. All councilors will be members of this committee.