The Town of Dudley is seeking individuals to serve on the newly formed Government Study Committee, a key initiative recommended in a recent state financial management review. 

This committee will evaluate the town’s government structure and recommend solutions to improve coordination, communication, and efficiency. The Board of Selectmen will appoint members who must approach this study with an open, fact-finding mindset, free from any predetermined agendas. 

The development of this committee follows a financial management audit conducted by the state Division of Local Services (DLS) at the request of the Board of Selectmen, after repeated calls from residents. The audit covered concerns over budget shortfalls, Proposition 2 ½ override elections in the summer 2023, and ongoing fiscal challenges, including staff turnover due to better-paying opportunities elsewhere. 

A key finding of the report emphasized that Dudley’s decentralized government structure lacks essential coordination and communication, hindering its ability to function effectively and efficiently. Addressing this issue will be the primary focus of the committee’s work. 

Committee responsibilities will include reviewing the town’s organizational structure, identifying inefficiencies, researching best practices in peer communities, and gathering input from town officials and residents. The study will begin in May 2025 and conclude by May 2026, when the committee will present its findings and recommendations to the Board of Selectmen. These recommendations may lead to further action at the May 2026 Annual Town Meeting. 

The town seeks individuals with relevant experience in local government, finance, management, public administration, or related fields who can contribute a fresh, objective perspective. To ensure impartiality, appointments will be made at the discretion of the Board of Selectmen based on qualifications, experience, and the ability to engage in an unbiased, fact-driven approach. 

Interested individuals should submit a letter of interest, including a brief background of qualifications, to the Dudley Board of Selectmen at [email protected] by March 31, 2025. TOWN OF DUDLEY MASSACHUSETTS Public Information Office Debbie LaPlaca 71 West Main Street Office: 508-949-8030 Public Information Dudley, MA 01571 Mobile: 508-847-2206 [email protected]