Sweet Home council votes to refer charter change allowing direct election of mayor; measure set for May ballot filing

The Sweet Home City Council voted 4–2 with one abstention to refer a charter amendment to voters that would change how the city’s mayor is chosen, moving from a council appointment to a direct election by residents.

City Attorney Blair Larson told the council the draft amendment would change council composition so three councilors are elected at each biennial election, give councilors four-year terms and make the mayor a two-year position chosen by popular vote. Larson said the referral resolution would need to pass the council by Feb. 28 to meet state deadlines for the May 20, 2025 ballot; if the council delays, the same amendment could be placed on a November 2025 ballot (at cost) or on the May 2026 ballot at no cost to the city.

Why it matters: supporters told the council they want all registered voters to choose the mayor rather than having a majority of councilors appoint the post. Opponents stressed potential election costs this year and urged delay so the city can avoid fees and allow the Charter Review Committee more time to resolve technical issues such as how to fill vacancies if sitting councilors run for mayor.

Larson said the draft language does not address every…