Agenda - Charter Commission - 05/05/2010

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Commissioner Frederick asked who will and how will we educate our residents so they understand the difference. Commissioner Cleveland stated she is fine with the City Council moving ahead and putting this on the ballot. Maybe step back, look at the Manager position, and write for the Charter what you define the Manager to be. Mayor Ramsey stated that you will always have the issue of a new City Council. The question could say, "Shall the City of Ramsey continue with its current form of government which is Mayor/Council, as we have always been. Basically, people understand what we are doing right now is working and we should continue as we are. As far as educating citizens, we could sit down and list pros and cons on one piece of literature, send it out to all citizens, and be done with it. He added that we also have face book, the City's website and the newsletter. Attorney Goodrich stated that state law says the statement or question shall be sufficient to amend clearly. Commissioner Field inquired what happens if the Charter Commission takes no action within 60 days. Mr. Goodrich replied you can ask for more time. Commissioner Field asked if it would be an extension then -and not an approval. Motion by Chairperson Deemer and seconded by Commissioner Frederick to table action on the proposed amendment to Section 2.1 to a meeting not before May 3 and not after May 29, to be scheduled. Further discussion: The reason Chairperson Deemer stated the meeting could not be held prior to May 3 was questioned. Chairperson Deemer referred to State Statute 410.10. Attorney Goodrich informed Chairperson Deemer that 410.10 pertains to an original charter - 410.12 is amending a charter. Amendment by Commissioner Field and seconded by Commissioner Niska to reconsider the dates of May 3 to May 29 - to establish May 29 as the end date but not set the date for the first meeting until we hear from the City Attorney regarding review of this Statute. Further discussion. Commissioner Field commented that it didn't make sense to restrict ourselves to a short timeframe for meeting if it's not necessary. Commissioner Cleveland stated that the City Council has the authority to place the question on the ballot without any input from the Charter. Attorney Goodrich replied that is true but they needed to submit it to the Charter and the Charter has 60 days to review it. Commissioner Cleveland inquired what the power of the Commission is to which Attorney Goodrich replied to approve it as suggested, reject it or suggest an amendment. Charter Commission-March 29, 2010 Page 7 of 9