Citizen proposes charter amendment to enhance Butte Silver Bow Council functions

During the recent Butte-Silver Bow Study Commission meeting, a significant proposal emerged that could reshape the governance structure of the local government. A concerned citizen raised a critical question regarding the Butte-Silver Bow Charter, which currently restricts commissioners from controlling city-county employees. The citizen argued that a similar restriction should apply to the Butte-Silver Bow CEO, who they believe has undue influence over the commissioners and public meetings.

The proposed amendment to Section 3.05(d) of the Butte-Silver Bow Charter aims to clarify the roles within the council. It suggests that the presiding officer for all council meetings should be the council chair, rather than the CEO. This change is intended to enhance the democratic process by ensuring that the council chair, elected at large and with prior experience as a commissioner, leads the meetings and decides tie votes without additional voting power.

The citizen also highlighted the importance of community engagement, proposing that the council chair be responsible for coordinating public interactions, including community councils and listening sessions. This approach aims to foster better communication between the council and residents, ensuring that public concerns are addressed more effectively.

The proposal reflects a growing sentiment among some residents who participated in a recent survey, indicating a desire for changes in how local governance operates. As discussions continue, the potential amendment could lead to a more transparent and accountable local government, aligning with the community's needs and expectations.

The meeting underscored the importance of civic engagement and the ongoing dialogue about how to improve local governance in Butte-Silver Bow. As the commission considers these proposals, the outcomes could significantly impact how residents interact with their local government in the future.