Special Charter Commission Meeting April 10, 2025
Tuesday, April 15, 2025
Periodic review of the city charter
Analysis of Chapter 5: Initiative, Referendum, and Recall
Discussion on petition circulation and committee formation
Requirements for ordinances and ballot language
Public notification and hearing processes for ballot measures
Review of the 15-day referendum window
Areas of Interest (4)
- Proposed changes to petition rules including the addition of telephone and email collection for committee members.
- Concerns over the 15-day window for filing referendums against city ordinances.
- The ongoing legal and procedural complexity of city initiatives following past litigation.
- Debate on whether current petition processes offer enough time for citizens to organize effectively.
Notable Quotes (2)
If you see something that says petition on it or it's seeming like it's trying to start a new law you need to let me know right away.
We very carefully construct these questions so that the majority is the yes vote.
People (5)
Steve PetersonChairHas served as chair for two years, former city council member and port authority board member.
Has served as chair for two years, former city council member and port authority board member.
Melissa MandersideCharter AttorneyProvides legal guidance on charter provisions, petition processes, and ballot language requirements.
2 quotes
Provides legal guidance on charter provisions, petition processes, and ballot language requirements.
“The essence of a city charter is that you have reserved powers for the people.”
Explaining the purpose of initiative and referendum.
“The law authorizes local governments to spend money to educate voters on things like this.”
Explaining how the city handles ballot question education.
Jamie HenssonCity ClerkOversees the administrative process of petition validation and number crunching.
Oversees the administrative process of petition validation and number crunching.
Mark ThorsonCommissionerLongtime commissioner with history on planning, housing, and redevelopment boards.
Longtime commissioner with history on planning, housing, and redevelopment boards.
Michael RamirezCommissionerRecent appointee, works in parks and recreation for the city of Egan.
Recent appointee, works in parks and recreation for the city of Egan.
Places Mentioned
Events & Meetings (1)
- Charter Commission Meeting, Thursday, 2025, 7:37 PM (Arrival time)