The proposed bill aims to establish a regional fire district and department for the towns of Charlemont and Rowe in Franklin County, Massachusetts. It allows residents of these towns to create a fire department responsible for firefighting operations, including the management of equipment and buildings. The bill outlines the process for the first district meeting, where voters will elect a moderator and a five-member prudential committee to serve as the board of fire commissioners. This committee will oversee the district's operations and be responsible for appointing key officials such as the assessors, treasurer, collector, and fire chief.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that the district will raise funds through taxation to cover operational expenses and may borrow money as needed, adhering to the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws. It also allows for the potential expansion of the district's service area into neighboring towns, with new residents subject to the same benefits and responsibilities. Importantly, the bill provides that residents maintaining a sufficient fire department will be exempt from local taxes for the support of other fire departments in their respective towns. The act will take effect upon its passage.