Santa Clara City Clerk seeks to clarify role in 1950 charter review meeting

The Governance and Ethics Committee meeting held on May 1, 2025, in Santa Clara focused on the city's charter and the role of the elected city clerk. The discussion highlighted the historical context of the charter, which was first proposed in 1950, and emphasized the need for clarity regarding the responsibilities of the city clerk.

During the meeting, a committee member pointed out that the current charter language, particularly Section 903 concerning the city clerk, has remained unchanged since its inception. Despite an ordinance that delegates some duties to the assistant city clerk, there is a lack of clear definition regarding the elected city clerk's role. The member expressed a desire to refine this definition to better inform city staff, council members, and the public about the position's responsibilities.

The conversation also touched on the charter's evolution, noting that the city clerk and chief of police were originally appointed positions until a public-driven measure in 1951 changed them to elected roles. This change was significant as it marked the first instance of public involvement in amending the charter. The member indicated that further discussions are needed to address minor conflicts between the charter and existing ordinances.

Additionally, the city manager and the committee member planned to meet after the session to discuss the city clerk's roles and responsibilities further. The member acknowledged receiving public input on the expectations for the city clerk's office and expressed a commitment to enhancing the clarity of the position.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the importance of revisiting the city's charter and the need for a clearer understanding of the elected city clerk's duties, which could lead to future amendments or ordinances aimed at improving governance in Santa Clara.