Massachusetts Open Meeting Law: A Comprehensive Guide

In the state of Massachusetts, transparency in government is paramount. The Massachusetts Open Meeting Law (M.G.L. Chapter 39, Section 23B) ensures that the public has access to the deliberations and decisions made by governmental bodies. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the law, its requirements, and how citizens can participate in local government.

What is the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law?

The Massachusetts Open Meeting Law, codified in M.G.L. Chapter 39, Section 23B, mandates that meetings of governmental bodies be open to the public. This principle is fundamental to democratic governance, allowing citizens to observe the decision-making processes of their elected and appointed officials. The law applies to state and local governmental entities, including city councils, school committees, boards of selectmen, and various commissions, and committees.

Key Requirements of the Law

• Open Meetings: All meetings must be open to the public, allowing any person to attend.
• Public Notice: Governmental bodies must provide public notice of their meetings, including the date, time, and location. Agendas must also be posted, outlining the topics to be discussed.
• Record Keeping: Accurate records of meetings, including minutes, must be kept and made available to the public.
• Accessibility: Meetings must be accessible to individuals with disabilities.

City of Springfield and the Open Meeting Law

The City of Springfield, Massachusetts, adheres to the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law. As stated on the City Clerk’s website, all governmental bodies within the city must hold open meetings accessible to the public. Springfield provides multiple avenues for public access:

• Municipal Calendar: A calendar listing scheduled meetings is available online.
• Live Broadcasts: City Council meetings are televised live on Springfield’s Government Channel 17.
• Online Access: Agendas, minutes, and supporting documentation are posted online for public review.

What Constitutes a “Meeting”?

The Open Meeting Law defines a “meeting” broadly. It includes any gathering of a quorum of a governmental body where public business is discussed. This can encompass formal meetings, as well as informal gatherings, conference calls, and even email exchanges if they involve a quorum and discussion of public business. A review of Chapter 39 of the Massachusetts General Laws details various aspects of municipal government, including meeting procedures.

Exceptions to the Open Meeting Law

While the law prioritizes transparency, certain exceptions allow governmental bodies to meet in closed-door sessions, also known as executive sessions. These exceptions are limited and specifically defined by law, and typically involve matters such as:

• Discussion of litigation strategy
• Collective bargaining negotiations
• Real estate negotiations
• Personnel matters

Any decision made in an executive session must be publicly announced at a subsequent open meeting.

Citizen Participation

The Open Meeting Law empowers citizens to participate in their local government. Individuals can:

• Attend meetings and observe deliberations.
• Request access to public records, including meeting minutes and supporting documentation.
• Contact their elected officials to express their views on public issues.

Resources

• Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 39, Section 23B
• Chapter 39: Municipal Government
• City Council Meetings – Springfield, MA
• Mass. General Laws c.39

The Massachusetts Open Meeting Law is a vital component of a functioning democracy. By ensuring transparency and public access, it fosters accountability and empowers citizens to engage in the governance of their communities.