Methuen, Mass., Code of Ordinances ch. 21 § 21-5
Enforcement: Complaints and Grievances
Operative Text
The City of Methuen Affirmative Action Officer shall be designated by the Mayor
to advise citizens of their rights under this ordinance and to refer cases of possible discrimination
to the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination.
The above-mentioned provision, however, does not preclude the injured citizen
from filing his/her complaint directly with the Massachusetts Commission Against
Discrimination.Section 21-5 of Methuen's Fair Housing ordinance establishes a two-track process for addressing housing discrimination complaints. The City's Affirmative Action Officer, appointed by the Mayor, is responsible for informing residents about their rights under the ordinance and forwarding potential discrimination cases to the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD). Importantly, this referral process does not eliminate the option of going directly to the MCAD — both pathways exist simultaneously under § 21-5.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating in Methuen should be aware that § 21-5 creates an accessible local enforcement channel through the City's Affirmative Action Officer, in addition to the state-level MCAD process. Compliant operators generally maintain practices that align with the Fair Housing ordinance, understanding that complaints can originate through either the local officer or a direct MCAD filing. Familiarity with both enforcement routes helps operators understand the scope of accountability under this chapter.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under § 21-5, Methuen residents who believe they have experienced housing discrimination have at least two avenues available to them. They may contact the City's Affirmative Action Officer, who is designated to explain rights under the ordinance and refer matters to the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, or they may file a complaint directly with the MCAD without going through the local officer first. Tenant-rights organizations familiar with Massachusetts fair housing law can help individuals understand what each path generally involves.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated November 11, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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