Charter Revision Commission Completes Initial Review; Public Hearing Scheduled for July 6

The Town of Winchester Charter Revision Commission has completed its initial review of the Town Charter and submitted its report to the Board of Selectmen for consideration. The report represents the culmination of several months of meetings, research, public hearings, and discussion by the Commission following its appointment by the Board of Selectmen in February.

The Charter Revision Commission was charged with reviewing specific areas of the Town Charter and evaluating potential amendments. During its work, the Commission held multiple public meetings and conducted public hearings to gather feedback from residents and stakeholders.

The report submitted to the Board of Selectmen contains recommendations and proposed amendments in several areas, including:

The structure and administration of the Town Clerk position;
Service on multiple major boards and commissions;
Terms of office for Registrars of Voters;
Modifications to the annual budget timeline and process; and
Clarification of eligibility requirements for boards and commissions.

The Commission also reviewed a number of additional topics that were ultimately not advanced as proposed Charter changes.

Their report can be found here: Charter Revision C Report June 15-9.pdf

Brief Presentation of report can be found here: Charter Revision Presentation June 15.pdf

The submission of the report marks the beginning of the next phase of the Charter Revision process. In accordance with Connecticut General Statutes, the Board of Selectmen will now review the Commission's findings and recommendations and receive public comment before determining what revisions, if any, should move forward.

A public hearing on the Charter Revision Commission Report has been scheduled for:

Board of Selectmen Public Hearing
Monday, July 6, 2026
6:00 PM
Winchester Town Hall – Hicks Room

Residents are encouraged to attend the hearing and provide comments on the Commission's report. Following the hearing, the Board of Selectmen will consider the recommendations and determine the next steps in the Charter Revision process.

The Town of Winchester thanks the members of the Charter Revision Commission for their time, effort, and dedication throughout this important review process and encourages all residents to remain engaged as the process moves forward.