STATEHOUSE (Feb. 12, 2013) — State Sen. Jim Smith’s (R-Charlestown) legislation to provide greater oversight for local redevelopment commissions passed the Senate today by a 44-5 vote.

Redevelopment commissions work to address underdeveloped or underutilized areas in a town, city or county in an effort to increase economic development.

Because they are funded by taxpayer dollars, Senate Bill 325 would require redevelopment commissions to be subject to greater oversight by the local legislative body that originally established the commission. In addition, the bill would require redevelopment commissions to receive approval from the legislative body before carrying out any publicly funded development projects.

“This bill increases transparency in local government by giving locally elected officials the authority to hold redevelopment commissions accountable for their use of taxpayer dollars,” Smith said. “Ultimately, it’s a move to protect taxpayers and make sure their hard-earned money is being spent responsibly.”

The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration. Its sponsors are Reps. Milo Smith (R-Columbus) and Robert Cherry (R-Greenfield).

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