The Charter Revision Commission voted May 8 to remove newly added language in the draft charter that would have required RTM confirmation for appointments to many town boards and commissions.

The discussion began after commissioners reviewed public comments expressing concern that adding RTM confirmation would lengthen appointment timelines and politicize otherwise administrative positions. Commissioners examined the existing charter, which already assigns appointment authority differently across bodies: most boards are appointed by the Board of Selectmen, some by the Board of Selectmen with RTM involvement, and only the Conservation Commission is currently a First Selectman appointment under the existing charter.

Why it matters: Changing who appoints board and commission members affects how local policy and oversight bodies are constituted and can lengthen appointment processes. Several commissioners and commenters argued that requiring RTM approval across many appointments would add meetings and delay filling vacancies; others said RTM involvement could increase transparency and minority representation.

The CRC debated the practical effects — including the potential for only occasional, symbolic rejections of nominees — and looked at examples from other towns. After discussion, Commissioner (Chair) moved to “return the appointment process for all boards and commissions to the current charter” (i.e., remove the RTM‑approval language added earlier in the draft), excluding the Conservation Commission language that already differs in the existing charter. The motion was seconded and carried by voice vote.

Related votes: The commission also amended the Flood Prevention, Climate Resilience and Erosion Control Board membership from five to seven members after an error was identified; that change was adopted by vote. Later the full draft charter (with these edits) was approved for submission to the Town Clerk and Board of Selectmen.

The commission directed staff to send the final draft, the summary report, and public comments to the Town Clerk for transmission to the Board of Selectmen. The Board of Selectmen will hold its own public hearing on the draft and may provide recommendations back to the CRC under the statutory process.