Municipal “Print-Free” Notice Exemptions
IG Shapiro urged the Legislature to update Section 13 of Chapter 4 to create a standard policy for all communities that reflects the changing digital newspaper and digital posting landscape. This standardized policy may include provisions for communities that do not have an active newspaper covering their region and include provisions to lower the cost burden for municipalities to post or make it easier for members of the public and bidders to find out about public meetings or view public notices.
Read the LetterOIG In Your Inbox — Community Preservation Act Funds
A municipality that has adopted the Community Preservation Act (CPA) can raise revenue to acquire and
preserve historic assets, open spaces, community housing, and land for recreational use, in addition to
other eligible spending under M.G.L. Chapter 44B. As the primary stewards of CPA funds, municipalities
have a responsibility to use CPA funds effectively and only for appropriate purposes.
Former Watertown Housing Authority Executive Director to Repay Funds Stolen from Housing Authority
Inspector General Jeffrey S. Shapiro joined United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston in announcing that the former Executive Director of the Watertown Housing Authority (WHA) has agreed to return more…
Read the ReleaseOIG Investigation Found that BPS Wasted Public Funds
In a report issued today, Inspector General Jeffrey S. Shapiro called on Boston Public Schools (BPS) officials to pause payments on vendor contracts for non-essential goods and services in certain departments for 10 business days and perform an internal review after separate Office of…
Read the Press ReleaseBoston Public Schools – Procurements, Contracts, and Payments
Improper Workarounds and Oversight Failures Lead to Wasted Public Funds and Inaccurate Budget Reporting
Read the ReportOIG In Your Inbox – Treat Data as a Valuable Asset
Many organizations incorporate data-driven approaches to support such efforts. These approaches can be simple, like using spreadsheet software to track invoices and spending, or more complex, like incorporating generative artificial intelligence tools for constituent services. Using data can help an organization operate more efficiently
and effectively, but the data itself needs to be managed and treated as a formal asset.
S. 3235, An Act Relative to the Pilgrim Memorial Park
IG Shapiro urges Gov. Healey to veto legislation that would allow the Commonwealth to lease Pilgrim Memorial Park to the Town of Plymouth because the bill is too ambiguous about who is responsible for capital improvements and maintenance among other issues.
Read the LetterOIG Investigation Finds Former Norfolk Officials Wasted and Misused Public Funds
The investigation, prompted by a tip to the OIG's fraud hotline, revealed not only that the former DPW Director failed to follow basic public procurement and fiscal management practices, which resulted in the misuse and waste of public funds, but also the former Town Administrator failed to supervise the DPW Director and abused his use of vacation time to his financial advantage.
Read the Press ReleaseTown of Norfolk-Misuse of Public Funds and Abuse of Vacation Time
An OIG investigation found that the former Norfolk town officials misused public funds and abused vacation time. The former Town Administrator failed to properly supervise the former DPW Director who failed to follow Massachusetts public procurement law and did not follow basic fiscal practices. The investigation also found that the former Town Administrator abused vacation time and was not properly supervised by the Select Board.
Read the LetterOIG Bulletin July 2026
This edition of the OIG Bulletin includes OIG celebrating 45 years, a look into the Commonwealth's Indigent Defense System, OIG's recommendations on ways to Address Sheriffs' Budget, OIG unveils new website, and more.
Read the BulletinLessons Learned from the OIG’s Report on Sheriffs’ Budgets and Expenditures
A major investigation such as the OIG’s examination of sheriffs’ offices often results in findings and recommendations that are relevant to other areas of government. Many of the financial issues that the OIG uncovered in its investigation are relevant for municipal officials.
Read the AdvisoryOIG In Your Inbox – Best Practices for Municipal-Affiliated Nonprofits
Affiliated nonprofit organizations can offer valuable benefits to municipalities. By supplementing appropriated funds, affiliated nonprofit resources can increase the quality and quantity of municipal events and services. Although affiliated nonprofit organizations are not under municipal control, you can and should adopt and follow best practices to mitigate risks that can arise from the interaction of the nonprofit with your government entity.
Read the Advisory