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Kasey C. Nye
The Tucson City Council has begun discussing proposed changes to the main document that guides city government, the charter.
The members of the City Council last year appointed a Charter Review Committee to come up with proposals to update the document, which is like Tucson’s constitution, in that it spells out who is responsible for hiring and firing department heads. It also sets tax limits and outlines the council’s authority.
“This meeting was primarily for us to present our report and recommendations for mayor and council to begin their deliberations on this topic, which will happen over the next several weeks and months," said Kasey Nye, chairman of the Charter Review Committee.
The committee suggested expanding the mayor’s authority. Currently, City Council members can cast votes on a wide number of issues on which the mayor's vote does not count.
“My impression was that the council was receptive to our proposals," Nye said.
He said the council is expected to discuss some changes in more detail next month. Any proposal the council approves must also get voter approval before the charter is changed.
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