During a recent city council meeting, significant discussions centered around proposed amendments to the city charter, particularly regarding term limits and the appointment of municipal judges. The council convened at 7:21 PM to address Proposition E, which aims to reset term limits for council members and the mayor to two three-year terms, beginning with elections in 2025 for certain wards. After serving two terms, officials would be required to sit out for at least one year before being eligible for re-election.

Legal counsel provided insights on Proposition G, clarifying voting rights for the mayor pro tem when presiding over council meetings. The amendment ensures that both the mayor and mayor pro tem can vote on council items, addressing previous concerns about potential voting restrictions.

Propositions H and I focused on procedures for filling council vacancies, emphasizing the need for clear guidelines during elections. Proposition J proposed that the city council may appoint a law firm to serve as city attorney and deputy city attorneys, with their compensation determined by the council.

A notable amendment was made to Proposition K, which now stipulates that the municipal court judge will be nominated by the mayor and approved by the council for a term concurrent with the mayor's term, rather than a fixed two-year term. This change aims to align the judicial appointment process with the mayoral term, allowing for future adjustments based on voter preferences.

The council also voted to amend the charter review period from every ten years to every five years, a move aimed at ensuring the charter remains compliant with state and federal laws and responsive to the needs of residents. This marks the first significant update to the charter in nearly two decades, reflecting a concerted effort by the council to enhance governance and accountability.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to dispose of the original motion related to the charter review period, signaling a commitment to ongoing improvements in city governance.