City & Town Newsletters

Addresses matters of interest to local officials. Published by the Division of Local Services.

Displaying 11 - 20 of 119

Ask DLS: ATB Case Related to “Sufficient Beneficial Interest”  

This article features frequently asked questions concerning a recent case from the Appellate Tax Board (ATB), Helbert v. Board of Assessors of the Town of Wilmington. This case concerns what constitutes a “sufficient beneficial interest” when property is held in trust.

Ask DLS: Cannabis Dispensary Issues  

Answers frequently asked questions related to cannabis dispensary issues.

Ask DLS: Chapter 77 of the Acts of 2023  

This FAQ addresses frequently asked questions related to legislative changes contains in Chapter 77 of the Acts of 2023 concerning opioid settlement funds.

Ask DLS: Chapterlands  

Answers frequently asked questions related to chapterlands.

Ask DLS: Collection Procedures for Certain Unpaid Municipal Violation Fines  

Answers frequently asked questions related to collection procedures for certain unpaid violations.

Ask DLS: Drafting Articles for Town Meeting Warrants  

This article features frequently asked questions concerning the drafting of articles for town meeting warrants.

Ask DLS: Elected to Appointed/Combining Roles  

Answers frequently asked questions related to moving municipal positions from elected to appointed and combinding certain municipal roles.

Ask DLS: Electronic Tax Bills and Abatement Applications  

This FAQ addresses frequently asked questions concerning electronic tax bills and submitting electronic abatement applications.

Ask DLS: Encumbrances  

This article discusses encumbrances in municipal finance, explaining their role in ensuring contractual obligations are met within operating appropriations. It also clarifies the differences between encumbrances and special purpose appropriations, highlighting the importance of proper documentation and consistent practices in managing funds for periodic charges like utility bills.

Ask DLS: Fees and Charges  

This FAQ addresses frequently asked questions concerning the authority of municipal boards and officials to set fees and charges for permits, licenses, or certificates they issue and any services they provide and, if those fees and charges are currently established by state statute, to set them above the statutory level.