Mayor appoints Charter Review Commission amidst bipartisan concerns over appointments

In a heated discussion during the Saratoga Springs City Council Pre-Agenda Meeting on May 5, 2025, the appointment of a new Charter Review Commission sparked significant debate among council members. The commission, tasked with evaluating the city charter and proposing potential revisions, includes a diverse group of individuals, but the selection process has raised concerns about partisanship and transparency.

Mayor Ron Kim announced the formation of the commission, which will be chaired by Vince DeLeonardis and includes members such as Matthew Jones and Deidra Ladd. The commission's goal is to assess the current charter and draft recommendations for changes that could be presented to voters in the 2026 general election. However, the appointment process has come under fire, with council members questioning the lack of bipartisan collaboration.

Council member Chuck Schreiber expressed skepticism about the commission's ability to effect meaningful change, suggesting that previous reviews had overlooked opportunities for local law adjustments. Tensions escalated as Schreiber and other members debated the selection of Lou Benton, with accusations of unilateral decision-making and a lack of communication among council members.

"This is not a bipartisan commission," Schreiber asserted, emphasizing that the appointments felt one-sided and lacked input from all council factions. The exchange highlighted underlying frustrations regarding the council's dynamics and the perceived politicization of the charter review process.

As the meeting progressed, members were urged to maintain professionalism and avoid personal attacks, reflecting a broader need for constructive dialogue in city governance. The outcome of the commission's work could have lasting implications for Saratoga Springs, making the discussions surrounding its formation particularly significant. The council is expected to continue addressing these concerns as they move forward with the charter review process.