Confusion over bylaw change prompts public meeting in Weston

WESTON

Concerned that one of the items on the warrant for the Nov. 28 Special Town Meeting has created confusion for residents, officials have scheduled a public meeting to explain it.

Article 7 proposes changing the process for dealing with violations of town bylaws so that town officials, such as the Fire Chief, Dog Officer, Building Inspector and others, can directly issue a citation to an offender.

The current procedure requires the town to file a criminal complaint in district court, which can be a time-consuming and expensive process, according to a draft information sheet provided by the town.

The proposed replacedment process is called non-criminal disposition. It would apply to things like littering, violations of Board of Health and Planning Board rules, violations of dog bylaws, and failure to obtain a street opening permit. Alleged violators would be able to appeal by requesting a hearing in district court within 21 days.

The Board of Selectmen will hold an informational meeting for the public about the proposed bylaw on Monday at 7:30 p.m. in Town Hall.

-- Stephanie V. Siek