City & Town Newsletters

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

Displaying 41 - 50 of 134

Ask DLS: Transportation Network Companies  

Answers frequently asked questions related to transportation network companies and acounting of revenues received from the Commonwealth Transportation Infrastructure fund.

Ask DLS: Treatment of Opioid Settlement Payments  

These FAQs on the treatment of anticipated settlement payments from opioid defendants by municipalities, focusing on recent statewide opioid settlements. It addresses questions about setting up special revenue accounts, legislative considerations for amendments, appropriation processes, and the utilization of settlement funds for opioid remediation purposes.

Ask DLS: Valuation of Real Property Following a Fire or Natural Disaster  

This article features frequently asked questions concerning the valuation of real property following a fire or natural disaster.

Ask DLS: Veteran Property Tax Work-off Abatement Programs  

This article features frequently asked questions frequently asked questions concerning recent publications and the reservation of funds.

Ask DLS: Veteran Property Tax Work-off Abatement Programs  

This article features frequently asked questions concerning property tax work-off abatement programs for veterans established under G.L. c. 59, § 5N.

Ask DLS: Year-End Issues  

This article features frequently asked questions on year-end issues that cities and towns may face as Fiscal Year 2025 ends on June 30, 2025.

Assessor Property Inspection and Visit History Reporting Best Practices  

This article reviews assessor property inspection and Visit History Reporting best practices. It highlights the importance of data quality and formatting of the required “Visit History” Excel report created by the assessors (or vendors) to be submitted to the DLS Bureau of Local Assessment.

Bureau of Accounts FY26 Tax Rate Recap Prep Tips  

This article from the DLS Bureau of Accounts provides tips for local officials as they prepare and present the FY2026 Tax Rate Recap for approval.

DLS Resources for New Accountants and Other Finance Officials  

This article discusses the resources and training available for new municipal finance officials, particularly focusing on the role of the Bureau of Accounts in overseeing financial management and providing guidance to municipalities in Massachusetts.

DLS Training Highlight: Property Tax Abatements  

This article provides a comprehensive resource for local officials and interested taxpayers regarding the property tax abatement process.