04-09-1998 Charter Minutes (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

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Charter Commission April 9, 1998 Page 6 Commissioner Turner emphasized this was only an estimate, and it was to their advantage financially to have the attorney rewrite only the section. She stated it would be a good exercise for them to see the differences between the rewrite and the old section. Chair Montain indicated he felt it was too much work for the voters. Commissioner Kenfield stated that it did not have to go to the voters. They could review the rewrite and then determine if they wanted to pursue rewriting the entire Charter. Commissioner Dunn pointed out that the section to be changed in Chapter 8 is only three (3) pages long. He believed it was well worth it for up to $500.00. After the rewrite, they could vote on if they wanted to change it. SUBSTITUTE MOTION by Commissioner Kenfield, seconded by Commissioner Sullivan,to authorize Commissioner Sullivan to investigate what changes could be made to Chapter 8 for $500.00. Motion carried with Commissioners Dahl, Trehus, Montain, Lane, and DeMotts voting no. Commissioner Sullivan clarified that each member would bring their suggested corrections to the next meeting. Commissioner Turner said she believed that everyone will be very surprised and pleased with the changes and will want to pursue this further. INITIATIVE AND REFERENDUM FORM Chair Montain explained there is a need for the creation of an Initiative and Referendum Form that is user friendly and he believed the Commission should create the form. Commissioner Aldentaler stated that he believed there was already a form, but from personal experience he knew that it was very difficult to accomplish certain things without this form. Chair Montain asked if they could create one fairly easily and quickly. Commissioner Zastro asked for suggestions on how to make one. Commissioner Dahl suggested a form that involved an easy to do list. Chair Montain added that it could include step by step instructions and a list for the Commissioner. Commissioner Trehus suggested they call other cities and see if they have an established form. He added that they should include a booklet with a sample of a successful petition. Commissioner Turner wondered why citizens had to struggle with this issue. She asked why they couldn't have an easy form with a checklist, signatures, and date. Commissioner DeMotts stated that he was aware that citizens from other cities get tired of going through commissions, and if they make the petitions too easy to prepare, certain groups could take over the City. 6