Duties
Chapter 40 § 8d identifies five responsibilities for all commissions established under the chapter. They are:
- Conducting research on places of historical or architectural value;
- Cooperating with the State Archaeologist in conducting surveys and reporting on sites;
- Coordinating with other preservation organizations;
- Keeping accurate records of its actions and filing an annual report; and
- Maintaining a membership of not less than three, nor more than seven members, duly appointed by the appropriate municipal officer.
Beyond these five responsibilities, the commissions are free to undertake any number of activities for the purpose of preserving, protecting, and developing the historic an archaeological assets of the community. They may:
- Prepare and distribute publications
- Make recommendations to the Board of Selectmen and Massachusetts Historical Commission;
- Hold hearings;
- Enter into contracts and other agreements;
- Accept gifts to further its work;
- Hire staff; and
- Acquire property in the town's name.
Source: Preservation Planning Manual, Local Historical Commissions, Published by the Massachusetts Historical Commission, a Division of the Office of the Secretary of State