Sacramento Charter Review Committee
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a city charter?
A city charter is a unique document that, in many ways, acts like a constitution for the city. The charter can only be amended or repealed by a majority vote of a city's voters.
When was the City’s charter adopted?
The City’s current charter dates from 1921. There have been numerous amendments over the years, but no comprehensive review in decades.
What is the purpose of the Charter Review Committee?
The Committee is an advisory body to the City Council and will be reviewing the City’s current charter and making recommendations to the City Council for amendments.
How were the 11 Charter Review Committee Members selected?
Each Councilmember and the Mayor appointed one member each. Two additional members were appointed at large by the City Council through an application and interview process.
How long will the Charter Review Committee’s review take?
The Charter Review Committee’s first meeting was held April 2, 2009. The Committee is required to present a written report of preliminary recommendations to the City Council on or before December 15, 2009. The Committee’s final written report is to be provided to the City Council by January 26, 2010.
When are Charter Review Committee meetings held?
With a few exceptions, Charter Review Committee meetings are generally held the first Thursday and third Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m. A comprehensive meeting calendar is posted on the City’s Charter Review Committee website at www.cityofsacramento.org/charter.
What issues will the Charter Review Committee examine?
The governing resolution requires the Committee review the Charter in its entirety. However, the following issues should be given particular consideration and must be addressed in the final report to the City Council:
- The City’s governance structure (Mayor-Council vs. Council-Manager, and the issues related thereto);
- The delegation and/or reservation of City powers
- Appointment and removal of City officers and employees
- The City budget process
- Green waste disposal
- Full-time status for Councilmembers and issues related to full-time status for Mayor and Council
- Term limits
- Ethics Commission
How can I participate in the process?
Charter Review Committee meetings are open to the public and are held in the City Council Chambers at 915 I Street. Every meeting includes a public comment period. The meetings are also streamed live over the internet via the City’s website at www.cityofsacramento.org. Meeting agendas and video archives of the meetings are also posted on the City’s website. Comments may be provided to the Charter Review Committee by visiting the Charter Review Committee website at www.cityofsacramento.org/charter and clicking on the “Contact Us” link on the left column.
