Saturday, January 26, 2008

Commission Talks Charter Changes

   Members of the Lawrenceburg Board of Mayor and Commissioners have taken under advisement proposed changes to the city’s charter.

   City Attorney Alan Betz presented to proposed changes to the commission during a meeting Thursday.

   Some of the changes proposed have to do with eliminating “unnecessary” election-related costs. Officials propose doing away with costly run-off elections by changing the number of votes required in order for a candidate to be declared the winner of an election. In addition, officials propose changing the city’s election date from May to November, so that it would coincide with the General Election date, thus saving money for the city. In order to make this change, the terms of the current commissioners would be extended November of 2010 and 2012.

   Proposed changes include limiting the number of co-city property owners who may vote in a city election to two. Also, addressing the position of City Recorder, which currently remains vacant.

   A number of the changes proposed have to do with the position of City Administrator. One change allows for the appointment of someone other than the mayor to serve as City Administrator in the even the position becomes vacant. A second change calls for a reduction in the number of votes required by the commission in order to terminate the employment of an administrator. The charter now requires a two-thirds vote by the commission.

   The changes are being studied at the current time by members of the board. Should they decide to pursue the changes, it would require a two-thirds vote on the part of the board. Once that step is completed, the board would forward the proposed changes for approval by the state legislature. Once that hurdle is overcome, the commission is required to publish the proposed changes. Then hold a public hearing to discuss the changes. The changes would then have to be approved by a two-thirds majority of the commission.

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