Res. 6884 Adopting Charter Referendum - July 24, 2006

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In summary, the objectives for the proposed amendment to this section, as stated by the Charter Commission, are twofold: To update and correct language in 7.03 for system of taxation. In 7.03 to limit the annual tax levy and certain fee increases, but to provide a process to obtain voter referendum approval for needs beyond the limits. The attached resolution directs staff to prepare a ballot question for the amendment to the Mounds View Charter Chapter 7 Subd. 3 as presented by the Charter Commission pursuant to: MN Statute 410.12 Subd. 1 Subd. 1. Proposals. The charter commission may propose amendments to such charter ... and MN Statute 410.12 Subd. 4 Subd. 4. Election. Amendments shall be submitted to the qualified voters at a general or special election and published as in the case of the original charter. The form of the ballot shall be fixed by the governing body. The statement of the question on the ballot shall be sufficient to identify the amendment clearly and to distinguish the question from every other question on the ballot at the same time. If 51 percent of the votes cast on any amendment are in favor of its adoption, copies of the amendment and certificates shall be filed, as in the case of the original charter and the amendment shall take effect in 30 days from the date of the election or at such other time as is fixed in the amendment. The Attorney has indicated that while the City Council shall fix the form of the ballot question, the Charter Commission has the authority to have the question on the ballot. The upcoming General Election would obviously be the most cost-effective election to address this ballot question. A special election, if it were necessary, would cost approximately $10,000. To make the general election deadline, the question must be certified to the County by September 15th. Consequently, staff recommends final action on the question be taken by the Council no later than the August 28th regular meeting. Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council adopt the attached Resolution 6884 considering an amendment to Chapter 7 of the Mounds View City Charter as proposed by the Mounds View Charter Commission and directing staff to prepare language to be placed on the ballot for a vote of the qualified voters at the next general election, pursuant to the requirements of Minnesota Statute 410.12. If you would like other arrangements made for delivery, then please contact me on my cell phone at 651-308-8371. Respectfully submitted, Desaree Crane