A faction of City Councilors is proposing a series of charter amendments, purportedly to streamline city government procedures for hiring and elections. However, critics argue that these amendments undermine transparency and efficiency. In the face of pressing issues such as crime and homelessness, some have expressed disappointment that certain councilors are focusing on political maneuvering rather than providing tangible solutions.
Mayor Tim Keller voiced his concerns, stating, “Our community expects, and deserves, us to be focused on tackling crime and finding solutions to curb homelessness, not wasting time on distractions that are ultimately political ploys for power.” He further emphasized his openness to a charter reform task force and community discussion but criticized the proposed changes as being out of sync with the city's needs.
One contentious proposal involves altering the minimum votes required for mayoral or councilor candidates from 50% to 40% of the total votes cast. Critics argue this change is undemocratic and reverses an 11-year-old public referendum wherein voters decided elected leaders should secure a majority of votes to hold office. Furthermore, they point out that this amendment would not eliminate the need for runoff elections.
The group also proposes changing procedures for appointing and removing key city officials such as the City Attorney, City Clerk, and Chiefs of Police and Fire. These suggested changes have been criticized as undermining checks and balances designed to prevent corruption and patronage. Critics argue they would make these vital city roles "at-will," catering more to individual council districts' needs rather than those of the entire city represented by the Mayor. They warn that additional bureaucracy could politicize recruitment and promotion processes, increase turnover rates, and destabilize police and fire leadership.
Given the significant potential impact of these proposed changes, many believe that convening a Charter Review Task Force comprising City Council members, administration representatives, and other stakeholders would be an appropriate course of action.
