The Harwich Charter Commission is accelerating its efforts to modernize the town’s foundational governing document, launching a targeted search for professional consultants that could cost the town up to $40,000. During its July 10 meeting, the commission authorized a formal solicitation letter to five specific entities, prioritizing firms with deep experience in Massachusetts municipal law as they prepare to weigh significant changes to how Harwich is led and managed.

The search for a consultant highlights a growing divide within the commission regarding the necessary level of investment. Member Paul Don reported on his initial research, noting that the Edward J. Collins, Jr. Center for Public Management is the premier option but comes with a higher price tag. Don shared insights from former recruitment professionals, stating, To cut to the chase, he said the best I can do for you is to recommend you hire the Collins Group. Richard Wstack provided a comparative analysis of three major firms, noting that while the Collins Center has worked with 160 towns, other firms like Municipal Resources Inc. (MRI) have similarly robust portfolios. The financial stakes are notable; Don estimated a $40,000 cost for the Collins Center versus approximately $15,000 for MRI.

The decision to seek high-level guidance was supported by Lou Burbano, who argued that the complexity of the task justifies the expense. I liked Municipal Resources (MRI) of the three. I think we may need more guidance than MRI provides, whereas Collins will be in from A to Z, Burbano said. I don't care about the cost; you get what you pay for. Chair Linda Sabula outlined the specific attributes she is seeking in a consultant, including impartiality and a proven track record in the Commonwealth. She emphasized that proposals should be concise, noting An interested party should provide a proposal not to exceed three pages, including references and fees.

Motion Made by R. Wstack to send the solicitation letter to MRI, the Collins Center, and individual consultants Charlie Sumner, Bill Hinchie, and Rick White. Motion Passed (8-0-0).

The commission also waded into a spirited debate over the future structure of Harwich’s executive and legislative branches. While there was a consensus to maintain the Open Town Meeting model, Richard Wstack proposed a significant expansion of the Select Board from five to seven members. Wstack argued that a larger board would better reflect the community's diversity and prevent the concentration of influence. What about expanding the Select Board to seven members? It dilutes power. When power is concentrated, it causes problems. You'd have more diversity and perspective, Wstack noted. Lou Burbano raised concerns about the town’s ability to find enough willing candidates to fill those extra seats, noting the current difficulty in recruiting volunteers.

Adding another layer to the electoral discussion, Sandy Hall proposed implementing "numbered seats" for Select Board elections to prevent popular incumbents from being inadvertently unseated in crowded races. Hall explained that running for a specific seat rather than a general field would provide more stability. However, Tony London strongly disagreed, warning that such a shift could politicize local non-partisan offices. I don't understand why we'd do that. I love that I'm not running against an individual, but for the office, London said. Running for seats introduces partisanship and intimidation.

The commission’s focus also turned to the lack of an enforcement mechanism within the current charter, which members described as a missing judicial branch. Discussion centered on how to ensure town officials comply with charter mandates without forcing residents to file expensive lawsuits. Lou Burbano used a blunt analogy to describe the need for accountability: If you let the puppy keep peeing on the paper and never whack its nose, it's going to keep peeing on the rug. We need a way to address violations. Richard Wstack suggested the creation of an independent, elected Compliance Commission to handle such disputes, arguing that any body appointed by the Select Board would lack the necessary independence to judge the people who appointed them.

As part of its ongoing outreach, the commission approved a letter to be sent to all town boards, committees, and commissions, seeking their input on potential charter revisions. The deadline for this feedback was set for September 8 to allow smaller committees that meet infrequently to have ample time for discussion. The proper term is 'town agency,' but we can say 'board, committee, or commission,' Wstack said during a discussion on terminology. Chair Sabula noted that the commission would use these responses to identify intriguing ideas and potentially invite specific board chairs to future meetings.

On the administrative front, the commission solidified its staffing by officially bringing on Judith Molstead as the recording secretary. The board agreed to a streamlined minute-taking style that focuses on motions and the "gist of discussion" rather than verbatim transcripts. Sandy Hall noted, We discussed as a committee not having a full narrative of minutes, but having an executive summary... she understands that. To ensure smooth operations, the commission authorized John Shy to handle the payroll process for the new secretary. I can stop and speak to the treasurer to see what the process is, Shy said, noting the recent arrival of a new town accountant.

Motion Made by S. Hall to approve the minutes of July 1, 2025, as amended with name corrections for Sandy Hall and Judith Molstead. Motion Passed (8-0-0).

Motion Made by a member to authorize J. Shy to sign the recording secretary's pay slips. Motion Passed (8-0-0).

The commission expects to review consultant proposals after the August 10 deadline, a timeline that mirrors the urgency seen in other town departments as Harwich continues its search for a permanent Town Administrator. Member Paul Don and Herb Bell participated in all unanimous votes throughout the session, which concluded with a plan to revisit compliance and enforcement strategies at the next weekly meeting.