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Select Board reviews first read of updated Naming of Public Assets policy with new revocation and expense language
Summary
The Select Board’s Policy Subcommittee presented a first read of an updated Naming of Public Assets policy that adds explicit renaming and revocation steps, clarifies expense responsibilities, updates public hearing and placement procedures, and proposes a definition of 'major gift'; the board asked for written comments ahead of a second read.
At its May 19 meeting, the Select Board heard a first reading of an updated draft Naming of Public Assets policy presented by Select Board member Colette Aufranc on behalf of the Policy Subcommittee.
Aufranc said the existing policy dated from 2008 and that the draft reformats the document into the town’s standard policy structure and incorporates language from peer municipalities. Substantive additions include incorporating renaming language from the town bylaw, establishing a revocation framework for extraordinary circumstances, clarifying that the Select Board is not automatically responsible for costs tied to naming (such as plaques or signs), and adding procedures addressing function, design and placement of naming markers as well as public hearing requirements. The draft also defines “major gift” for consistency with bylaw references.
Town Counsel Eric Reustle joined the discussion and advised that the policy’s considerations should not be interpreted as exhaustive and that legal factors, such as charitable gift restrictions, may influence particular outcomes. The board reached consensus that a short checklist of issues for naming agreements would be useful and that the PSC should work with Town Counsel on advisable agreement elements. Aufranc also proposed compiling an inventory of publicly named assets with historical context in collaboration with the Historical Commission and Community Preservation Committee; the board asked members to submit written comments by the end of the week for incorporation before a second read.
This was a first read and no final policy vote was taken; the PSC will prepare revisions and return the item for further consideration.
