Rep. Donnie Berthiaume

Maddy summaryThis bill reorganizes the Town of Barre's government by abolishing the existing Public Works Commission and replacing it with a new Department of Public Works. The new department will consolidate the functions of the previous highway, water, sewer, and parks departments into a single entity. A superintendent will be appointed to lead the department and manage its operations, reporting to the town administrator, while all existing contracts and assets automatically transfer to the new structure.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows the town of Ware to hire permanent full-time police and fire department members who are older than the usual state-mandated age limit. The town's selectboard, town council, or other appointing authority can approve these appointments as long as the candidates meet all other civil service requirements. Essentially, it gives the town flexibility to consider older applicants for these roles without violating existing state laws.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends a 2022 law to formally transfer specific land and easement interests in West Brookfield to the Department of Fish and Game. The property in question is located at 652 West Main Street and was acquired for conservation, habitat protection, and public recreation purposes. By updating the legal description, the legislation ensures the state agency holds clear title to the land, which is currently recorded with the Worcester district registry of deeds. The change applies directly to the department and the specific parcel of land identified in the text.