While the fiscal and operational benefits of inter-municipal procurement and service delivery are well-documented, some communities may require transitional assistance to engage in and implement such programs.  Massachusetts’ history of local control invites potential local resistance to efforts towards regionalization. Additionally, some regionalization efforts, particularly those that require shared facilities, may require initial capital investments in order to achieve long-term financial efficiencies. Therefore, it is important that the Commonwealth provide upfront incentives to encourage regional efforts.  Many promising models are in place in other states, including Connecticut, New York, Maine, and New Jersey.  Such programs may provide technical assistance, grants, or increases in local aid to support joint procurement, regional service delivery, or even consolidation of small municipalities.   

Massachusetts should consider creating a Regional Service Implementation Fund, drawing from the lessons learned in these other states.

5.a    The Administration and Legislature should create a Regional Service Implementation Fund to foster inter-municipal collaboration

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