HomeMy Public PortalAbout2021-0607 DRAFT_1_PreamblePreamble Submitted to the CRC
By the Preamble Subcommittee
June 7, 2021
We, the people of Watertown — mindful of generations who came before us and
those yet to come as we seek a more perfect union — are committed to preserving
the blessings of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. In recognition of the
historical truth that we live on land that is the traditional territory of the Pequossette people, we
hereby establish the following Ethic of Civic and Environmental Stewardship, supported by a
group of Guiding Principles for this Home Rule Charter for our city.
These guiding principles find multiple expression in Watertown s policy priorities, practices,
and partnerships, in furtherance of the Charter's purpose: to provide the residents of
Watertown with a government that represents all who live, work, play, and create here, and
affirms our right to live and grow in freedom, dignity, and tranquility. They also foster wise
management of resources that guarantee the opportunity for all residents to reach their full
potential while caring for one another and promoting the health, safety, and welfare of our
community.
ETHIC OF CIVIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP:
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
* SAFETY & TRANQUILITY * HEALTH & WELL-BEING
* LEARNING & EXCELLENCE * CREATIVITY & INNOVATION
* EQUITY & DIVERSITY
We believe that this stewardship ethic and related guiding principles uphold public trust in the
competent and faithful execution of government duties, including loyalty and care. Taken
together, they yield vibrant and welcoming neighborhoods, high -quality and inclusive schools,
transparent and accountable municipal operations - including performance excellence,
responsiveness, and collaboration - and thriving local businesses. Recognizing the impact of our
decisions on future generations, and committing to practices that foster a sustainable
environment in service to the common good, we, the people of Watertown hereby adopt the
following Home Rule Charter for our city, all in accord with the Home Rule Amendment to the
Constitution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.