Sunnyvale directs charter review committee to study five potential amendments for 2026 ballot consideration

Sunnyvale Mayor Klein and the joint Charter Review Committee directed staff and the volunteer committee on June 3 to focus research this year on five potential charter amendments that the committee recommended for further study, citing operational impact and the need to limit the number of measures on a ballot.

Connie Versellas, deputy city manager, told the joint meeting that the committee’s work and council feedback would “help the committee to focus its time and limited resources on the most impactful, potential amendments.” She reminded the group that placing a measure on a ballot costs an estimated $180,000 per measure.

The committee chair, Gustave Larsen, presented a ranked list of 12 possible charter changes and explained the top recommendations. “Alternative project delivery methods” (for example, design‑build contracting) was the highest‑ranked item; Larsen said combining design and construction procurement can save time and money and has broad committee and public support. The committee also ranked revising council salaries and compensation high on the list to attract a broader candidate pool.

After discussion about sequencing and staff capacity, Councilmember Mellinger moved — and Vice Mayor Selle seconded — a motion directing the committee to prioritize these five items for study and potential ballot drafting for 2026: (1) authorize alternative project delivery/design‑build in the charter, (2) review and set city manager settlement authority, (3) update rules for council vacancies and appointments, (4) revise meeting frequency language to allow greater scheduling flexibility, and (5) review council and mayor compensation (including suggested job descriptions) while explicitly not proposing added powers for the mayor. Chair Larsen and staff confirmed the work is feasible within the committee’s remaining schedule and staff resources.

The motion passed as recorded, 6‑0. The council and committee asked staff to return with research, draft language options and outreach plans; any final ballot language and decisions will return to council. The motion does not place measures on the ballot — it directs study, drafting and public outreach so council can make a later decision about placement.

Next steps: staff will support the committee’s research and public engagement over the coming months; the committee expects to meet through the end of the year to prepare recommendation(s) and draft language for council review prior to any decision to place measures on a 2026 ballot.