Open Meeting Law/Ethics
Open Meeting Law
- All meetings are open to the public.
- Meeting notices must be posted by the town clerk or assistant town clerk at least 48 hours in advance of the public meeting excluding Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays.
- Notices are posted on the bulletin board outside of the town offices building at 40 Main Street.
Ethics & Conflict of Interest
Mandatory Online State Ethics Test
Every two years, all current municipal employees and committee members must complete online training. New public employees and committee members must complete this training within 30 days of beginning public service, and every two (2) years thereafter. Upon completing the program, employees should print out the completion certificate and keep a copy for themselves and are required to provide a copy of the completion certificate to the Town Clerk’s Office. The Town Clerk’s Office is required to maintain the receipts, as a public record, for seven (7) years. The training can be found by clicking on the link below.
The conflict of interest law seeks to prevent conflicts between private interests and public duties, foster integrity in public service, and promote the public’s trust and confidence in that service by placing restrictions on what municipal employees may do on the job, after hours, and after leaving public service.
Summary of the Conflict of Interest Law for State Employees
Disclosure Forms
If you feel that you may have a conflict of interest while serving on a Town committee you may wish to file a disclosure form. Reasons to file one include, you have a personal or financial interest which somehow may relate to your job, your family or committee. There are several forms available depending on what your situation requires. If you are not sure you need to file one or are unsure as to what form to use contact the State Ethics Commission at (617) 371-9500 directly so they can advise you.
Click here for disclosure forms: Municipal employee disclosure forms.