Town Counsel Services

The Town of Westwood, Massachusetts, is seeking proposals from qualified legal firms to provide comprehensive town counsel services. The selected firm will assist the local government authority in navigating complex municipal legal matters and ensuring compliance with state and local regulations. The agency requires a legal partner with deep expertise in general municipal law, municipal finance, town bylaws, and regulations. The scope of work covers a broad range of municipal legal needs, including guidance on open meetings, public records, executive sessions, and conflict of interest laws. The designated counsel will handle zoning, land use, and real estate transactions such as acquisitions, sales, eminent domain, easements, leases, and tax takings. Additionally, the agency requires assistance with Town Meeting preparations, which includes drafting and reviewing warrant articles and motions, as well as providing active legal advice before and during the meetings. The legal services also encompass drafting and monitoring special legislation, managing bidding, public construction, and municipal procurement issues, and advising on affordable housing, subdivision control law, and the Community Preservation Act. Eligible bidders must be onshore organizations based in the United States. The agency expects all legal work to be performed offsite, and bidders must submit their proposals digitally via email or through the designated online portal. The agency has not disclosed a set budget and is looking for proposals to determine the financial terms.