Charter Review Commission sworn in, elects Mary Anne Atkinson chair and sets Aug. 25 public hearing

The City of Manvel Charter Review Commission was sworn in and convened for its first meeting, then appointed Mary Anne Atkinson as chair and approved a meeting calendar leading to a public hearing in late August.

Tammy Bell, the city secretary, collected members’ signed oaths and led administrative business as the group organized its work. After introductions from commissioners and staff, the commission moved to nominate and elect a chair. The nomination for Mary Anne Atkinson was seconded by Nicole Mitchell and the appointment carried by voice vote; the record showed a 10–0 tally in favor.

Commissioners agreed on a regular meeting cadence to complete the charter review and provide Council with recommendations in time for an election timeline staff described. The commission approved a series of biweekly meetings at 6:30 p.m., with dates set beginning July 28 and a public hearing scheduled for Aug. 25. Tammy Bell said staff will circulate the full meeting schedule and supporting materials to members by email and post resources on the city website.

Members also set short-term homework for the next meeting: read Articles 1–5 of the charter (through the elections chapter) and identify “hot topics” to bring forward. The group discussed practical accommodations for members with conflicting schedules, and staff confirmed written comments would be accepted to accommodate those who cannot attend in person.

Next steps: commissioners will begin section-by-section review at the next meeting, submit identified hot topics to staff in advance, and prepare for the Aug. 25 public hearing where residents may speak during the public-comment portion of the meeting. The commission’s report to City Council is expected to follow the review schedule discussed, with staff recommending a target that gives council time to prepare ballot language if any charter changes are recommended.