This episode aired on 11/27/24 on WICN 90.5FM

In this episode of Public Hearing, we wrap up Article Two of Worcester’s Home Rule Charter, exploring the structure and powers of the City Council. I’m joined by Domenica Perrone, a passionate community engagement practitioner and advocate for health equity, who shares her insights on Worcester’s governance and the challenges facing our city. Together, we examine how the Charter influences democracy, representation, and equity in local government. I also go on a rant about funding allocation to the City Council, which is a must-listen. 

Key Topics:

• City Council Structure
  • How at-large and district council seats are elected.
  • The unique Worcester system where at-large candidates are also automatically in the running for mayor.
• Emergency Ordinances and Decision-Making
  • The process for passing emergency ordinances and safeguarding public interests.
  • Limitations on emergency measures related to franchises and special privileges.
• Vacancy Filling Process
  • How council vacancies are filled through past election results and the implications for representation.
• Funding Disparities in City Government
  • Comparing the limited resources of the City Council to the City Manager’s office.
  • How these disparities affect democratic checks and balances.
• Barriers to Representation
  • Challenges of part-time council roles and underfunded constituent services.
  • The need for trust-building and transparency in public participation.
• Recommendations for Reform
  • Transitioning to full-time council roles with equitable salaries.
  • Expanding staff support and introducing participatory budgeting.
  • Exploring a strong mayor system and ranked-choice voting to enhance representation and equity.

Chapter Markers:

• [00:00:00] – Introduction
  Setting the stage for Article Two and welcoming guest Domenica Perrone.
• [00:03:08] – Emergency Ordinances
• [00:05:35] – General Measures and Public Notice
  The publication requirements for ordinances and ensuring public accessibility.
• [00:07:54] – Vacancy Filling Process
  How council and mayoral vacancies are addressed in Worcester.
• [00:13:22] – Funding Disparities and Council Capacity
  Examining how budget inequities impact representation and council efficacy.
• [00:19:20] – Recommendations for Reform
  Concrete steps to address funding, representation, and governance challenges.

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Created & Hosted by Joshua Croke.
Our Audio Producer is Giuliano D'Orazio.

Citations:

1. About our guest, Domenica Perrone
2. The Worcester Home Rule Charter
3. “The Annual Underfunding of Worcester City Council” (Tom Marino, June 4, 2024, This Week in Worcester)
4. UMass Chan Medical School’s Collaborative in Health Equity