Agenda - Charter Commission - 02/23/1984

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I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Commissioner Buchanan stated that a re-election of officers could have been included in Chapter 12, but the Commission had no reason to include that provision. Commissioner Sieber noted that all existing ordinances will also be in effect unless the conflict With the charter. Mr. Darryl Fults stated he would like to see a charter summary designating what we have with the current form of government and how the charter will change it. Mr. Jack Ippel stated that the charter is changing something and there has to be a w~y to summarize the changes and differences. Mr. Ippel then inquired as to phrases in the charter regarding 'unanimous vote of council'. Chairman Heitman replied that an emergency ordinance would require a unanimous vote of council. Commissioner Gamec stated that suspending with the reading of an ordinance prior to voting on it would also require a unanimous vote of Council. Mr. Fults inquired as to the provision for no councilmember holding a City position for one year after leaving office. Commissioner Bauerkemper stated that provision is an attempt to prevent a councilmember pushing through the creation of a city position in order to fill that position after he is out of office. Commissioner Sieber stated that that clause already exists at State and Federal levels. Commissioner Gamec stated that just such situations have occurred in other cities and sometimes the one who creates a position is the best qualified to follow up on it. Commissioner Sieber stated that another change brought on by the charter would be repeal of initiative ordinances. If Council passes an ordinance that the people are in opposition to, the people can repeal it. Mr. Jack Ippel inquired as to when a 4/5 vote of council would be required. Commissioner Data replied a 4/5 vote would be required whenever State statutes require a 4/5 vote of council. Commissioner Buchanan noted that a more detailed charter summary of changes and differences is a good suggestion. Ms. Sheila Beyer suggested that if a more detailed summary is prepared, that it be sent out by First Class mail in order for more thorough City distribution. The postal carrier is not required to distribute anything labelled Postal Patron. A complete distribution will require addressing and delivery First Class. Mr. Fults suggested that the Ramsey Resident be resurrected for one month to inform the people of the charter and it's contents. Commissioner Sieber stated that it has been established that the Post Office is not the most reliable method of complete distribution and another method will be devised. Sp CC/February 15, 1984 Page 11 of 12