The City of Frederick's Charter Review Committee is pleased to announce the release of the Charter Review Committee's draft report, a crucial step in the ongoing process to review and recommend changes to the city's governing document. This comprehensive review covers various aspects, including Elections and Election Administration, Legislative Body and Structure of Government, Charter Sections to be Relocated, and Procedural Issues.
The Charter Review Committee has diligently worked to compile a set of recommendations aimed at enhancing the efficiency and responsiveness of our local government. The draft report, available for public viewing here, outlines key recommendations that will shape the future of our city.
The recommendations include:
- City Structure Change: Establishing a separate executive (Mayor) and legislative branch (City Council).
- Legislative Body Name: The City's legislative body shall be known as the City Council.
- Size of City Council: A seven-member City Council, some elected from districts and others at large.
- City Council Districting: Developing a new process for election with four members from districts and three at large.
- President of City Council: Determined by vote and held for the length of the term.
- Qualifications of Office: Defined criteria for the Mayor and City Council members.
- Term Limits: Limiting Mayor to two four-year terms and City Council members to three four-year terms.
- Timing of Elections: Maintaining separate off-cycle City elections with mail-in ballots for maximum voter turnout.
- Ranked Choice Voting: Serious consideration for future implementation.
- Primaries: Adopting a semi-open primary system.
- Voting Rights: Extending voting rights to noncitizen City residents.
- Legislative Process: Establishing a process with timelines for proposed legislation.
- Compensation for Elected Officials: Appointment of a Compensation Commission on a schedule.
- Mayoral Appointees: Appointment of a Chief Administrative Officer.
- Mayoral Authority of City Employees: Appointment of executives for key functions.
- City Council Authority of City Employees: Limited involvement in day-to-day operations.
- Charter Review Schedule: Requiring a review not less frequently than every eight years.
- Ethics Provision: Extending Ethics Ordinance to elected officials.
- Charter Language Revisions: Eliminating, moving sections to the City Code, and considering language changes.
Residents are encouraged to provide feedback on these recommendations. Your input is vital in shaping the future of our city. You can share your thoughts through the online feedback form here or by emailing charterreview@cityoffrederickmd.gov.
The City of Frederick appreciates your engagement in this crucial process, as we work together to build a stronger and more responsive local government.