Agenda - Charter Commission - 07/18/1996

Home

Public Hearirtg Citizen Input Tom Gamec, 16021 Neon Street NW, Ramsey, stated he is in favor of leaving the mayor's term at two years. He feels the City is still going through controversial times. The mayor's job is a difficult one - one that is thankless for the most part. He added that a lot of times the mayor runs unopposed. He felt that the mayor's position was self rewarding and one of personal satisfaction. He suggested that Council direct that this proposal be placed on the next ballot. Terry Hendriksen, 15631 Ramsey Boulevard NW, Ramsey, recited Mr. Steffen's comment about "if it's not broke, don't fix it", and suggested that what we have is not broken. He felt it is comforting to know that at each election, residents have the authority to elect the majority of the Council. In this proposed situation, two of Council would be elected in off-presidential years, thereby three individuals would have the opportunity to mn rough shot on the citizens. There is no way to remedy that situation. He hoped Council would not go forward with this and also asked that it be placed on the ballot in November. Motion by Councilmember Peterson and seconded by Councilmember Beahen to close the public hearing. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Mayor Hardin, Councilmembers Pc: :~ ::on, Beahen, Beyer, and Zimmerman. VotingNo: None. The public hearing adjourned at 7:16 p.m. Council B~sine~,s Mayor Hardin called the regular portion of the City Council meeting back to order at 7:16 p.m. Councilmember Zimmerman inquired who instigated this proposed change. Councilmember Peterson suggested that Mr. Steffen had already explained how this came about. Mr. Steffen reiterated that the Charter Commission looked at all aspects of the electoral process. The idea of this amendment came mostly from council candidates who responded to the Charter Commission's survey. No one specifically spoke in favor of keeping the two-year Mayor term. He stated no one actually "instigated" this. The Charter Commission was just looking at ways to improve the electoral process of the City. Councilmember Beyer commented that if this is to be considered, she would like to see it on the ballot in November and give the silent majority a chance to say what they want done. Councilmember Zimmerman stated that more power should be given to the people - let them decide this issue. Motion by Councilmember Beyer and seconded by Councilmember Zimmerman to place this question on the November ballot. Further discussion: City Attorney Goodrich reported that when there is a recommendation for an amendment to the Charter, by ordinance, it does not become effective for 90 days. Within 60 days, a petition can be submitted requesting a referendum. The petition must be signed by 2% of the total number of registered voters in the City. City Council/March 26, 1996 Page 5 of 16