In preparing this book, Ed Gere has drawn on many years of practical experience outside the classroom in the local government field as a consultant to municipal charter commissions. He has made another significant addition to the literature on Massachusetts local governments ... -- James H. Powers, Legislative Research Bureau ...an excellent tool for students studying local government. It is easily read so that it is a very fine resource for those who are going to work in an administrative position in cities or towns. -- Maurice A. Donahue, University of Massachusetts ...a much needed addition in a field where there is relatively little thoughtful writing. -- George Goodwin, Jr., University of MassachusettsoBoston ...a much needed text ...presents to the student, to the public official and to the concerned citizen a very detailed view of Massachusetts local government, and the 'tools' available to improve local government. -- Robert J.M. O'Hare, Management Consultant, Former Faculty, Northwestern University ...a much needed text ...presents to the student, to the public official and to the concerned citizen a very detailed view of Massachusetts local government, and the 'tools' available to improve local government. -- Robert J.M. O'Hare, Management Consultant, Former Faculty, Northwestern University In preparing this book, Ed Gere has drawn on many years of practical experience outside the classroom in the local government field as a consultant to municipal charter commissions. He has made another significant addition to the literature on Massachusetts local governments ... -- James H. Powers, Legislative Research Bureau ...an excellent tool for students studying local government. It is easily read so that it is a very fine resource for those who are going to work in an administrative position in cities or towns. -- Maurice A. Donahue, University of Massachusetts ...a much needed addition in a field where there is relatively little thoughtful writing. -- George Goodwin, Jr., University of MassachusettsoBoston