Every city and town in Metro Boston has a history rich in tradition.  Still, a handful of municipalities are very small; the 2000 Census identified ten towns with populations under 6,000.  It is very difficult to run an efficient government and to provide a full array of services with such a small population base.  Others may be larger, but their working-class constituents may find it difficult to pay the high taxes needed to adequately fund local government.  Even some of the region’s small cities face daunting financial challenges, and their populations often need high-cost services.

For such cities and towns, mergers into a single political unit may be the best way to go – and several municipalities seem to be summoning the political courage to consider such a move.  Political unification is not for everyone, but in many cases it may allow a substantial reduction in overall administrative costs – money which could be plowed back into basic services.  Neighboring towns may find that they have similar needs, as well as complementary strengths.  One may run a great school system, while their neighbors may excel in public works or public safety.  Combinations can provide these benefits to a wider group of constituents, while simultaneously overcoming weaknesses.

7.a        The Division of Local Services in the Department of Revenue, working closely with MAPC, should help communities interested in merging to study the financial, service delivery, and land use implications of such a move, and then assist with implementation if the studies prove promising

7.b        The Commonwealth should provide seed capital to merging municipalities to assist with the transition costs that often precede savings and enhanced services

Add Comment