Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H4201

Introduced

6/5/25

Refer

6/5/25

Refer

9/2/25

Engrossed

4/13/26

Caption

Relative to changing the two-year elected term for the Mayor of Chicopee to a four-year elected term

Impact

If enacted, this bill will mean that elections for the Mayor of Chicopee will occur every four years instead of the current two-year cycle. This transition aims to reduce the frequency of elections, thereby allowing the elected Mayor to focus on governance without the disruptive need for re-election campaigns every two years. In addition, this may lead to increased continuity in policies and initiatives undertaken by the Mayor's office, which could improve the overall effectiveness of local government.

Summary

House Bill H4201 proposes a significant change for the city of Chicopee by altering the elected term of the Mayor from the current two years to four years. This change aims to provide the Mayor with a stabilizing term that could encourage longer-term planning and governance strategies. The bill's support by local officials suggests a push for a more consistent leadership that can address persistent issues over a more extended period.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support, there may be potential contention among constituents regarding the implications of extending the term length. Critics may argue that a longer term could lead to reduced accountability, as the Mayor would have more time in office without facing the electorate. Others might feel that this change could centralize authority and discourage political engagement, especially in communities that value frequent electoral participation as a means of checking power.

Notable_points

The bill's progression will depend on public acceptance, as it requires approval by a majority of qualified voters in Chicopee. This stipulation serves as a check on the proposed change, ensuring that the voices of the electorate are considered before such significant alterations to their local governance structure are made. Overall, H4201 reflects an attempt to streamline leadership in local government while also addressing potential concerns about democratic engagement and accountability.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MA H4253

Relative to elected terms and municipal years

MA H4202

Relative to the recall of any holder of elective office in the city of Chicopee

MA HB1530

Fairmount, City of; future mayors shall be elected to four-year terms; provide

MA HB2452

Changing the timing of city, school, community college and certain other municipality elections to fall in even-numbered years and requiring the term of office of municipal elected officials to be either two years or four years.

MA HB1292

School Board members; require to be elected for term of four years at the statewide general election or presidential election.

MA H4211

Changing the term of the elected office of moderator in the town of Holden

MA SB231

House Substitute for SB231 by Committee on Elections - Changing the timing of city, school, community college and certain other municipality elections to fall in even-numbered years and requiring the term of office of municipal elected officials to be either two years or four years.

MA H2244

Relative to making the charter of the city of Chicopee gender neutral

MA H5139

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE, PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE STATE -- FOUR YEAR TERMS AND TERM LIMITS FOR REPRESENTATIVES AND SENATORS (Proposes an amendment to the State Constitution, Article IV, Section 1, that would create four (4) year terms for general assembly members and impose term limits of three (3) full four (4) year terms on said members commencing with the 2028 election.)

MA H7238

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.