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Milford Select Board narrows public-notice rules; encourages earlier postings
Summary
The Select Board amended its public notice policy to require posting meeting notices in two locations (town website and physical Town Hall bulletin board) at least 24 hours in advance and to encourage committees to post meetings as soon as they are scheduled.
The Milford Select Board on Monday approved revisions to the town’s public notice policy that set a minimum posting requirement and encouraged earlier public notice by boards, committees and commissions.
Key changes
The amended policy requires that, except in emergencies, notice of the time and place of all meetings — including subcommittees and nonpublic sessions — be posted in at least two locations: the town website and a physical bulletin board in the Town Hall public lobby. Notices must be posted at least 24 hours in advance, excluding Sundays and holidays.
Board members discussed language to encourage earlier posting when meetings are scheduled at previous meetings. After several suggestions the board agreed on guidance language — recorded in the policy as an encouragement rather than a mandate — that reads, in substance: 24 hours is the minimum required posting time; however, boards and committees are encouraged to post meetings as soon as they are scheduled or shortly thereafter.
Why it matters
The change does not replace the state statute’s 24-hour requirement but seeks to encourage better public access and predictability for town meeting notices. Supporters said clearer expectations will help increase public participation; other members cautioned against setting stricter requirements than the state law.
Board action
A motion to approve the changes to the administration of commissions and committees (as amended) passed on a voice vote. The board instructed staff to finalize the text and publish the amended policy.
Ending: The board directed staff to publish the amended policy on the town website and to notify boards and committees of the new posting guidance.
