Commissioners unanimously approve statement opposing Nov. 5 charter ballot question that would expand assembly’s spending authority

Barnstable County commissioners voted unanimously to approve and release a statement opposing 11/05/2024 ballot question number 6, which the board said would amend the county charter to let the assembly initiate supplemental appropriations—an authority the county contends is executive in nature under state law.

Commissioner (Speaker 3) summarized the board's objections: the proposed amendment, drafted by the assembly and counsel, ‘‘bypasses’’ the county’s charter-review procedures, lacks specificity in the ballot question about which charter provisions would change, and risks creating an inconsistent division of powers that could invite legal challenges. Commissioners cited a KP Law legal opinion (dated 10/27/2023) and a recent Standard & Poor's review that affirmed improvements in county financial management. Several commissioners warned the change could complicate borrowing, potentially affecting future bond ratings.

The board's motion authorized release of the statement and to make the KP Law opinion available to the public. Commissioners repeatedly emphasized the importance of full disclosure to voters and suggested the substantive changes are better considered through the formal charter-review process with public hearings and stakeholder input. The chair noted the county is legally prohibited from using public funds to promote a political position but said individual commissioners may express personal views.

A public-recorded motion was made and seconded; the chair called the question and commissioners voted aye. Commissioners directed staff to include the KP Law legal opinion and attachments with the released statement and to continue discussions about a comprehensive charter-review process in 2025.