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Council votes to refer utility‑fee charter amendment to November ballot after contested debate
Summary
Following hours of debate and public testimony, the council approved Resolution 2026‑19 to submit a proposed charter amendment about utility‑fee limits to voters at the November 3, 2026 election. Councilors were split on whether the measure constrains future councils' fiscal flexibility; supporters said voters deserve a say.
After extended discussion about timing, budget forecasting and the effect of a charter amendment on council authority, the Ashland City Council voted to place a proposed amendment to Article IX, Section 8 of the city charter before voters on the November 3, 2026 ballot.
Staff warned that referring a fee moratorium or voter approval requirement to the ballot could tie the hands of future councils and complicate budget forecasting; they noted sample timelines and the $65,000 potential cost for a special election if not timed with a general election. Petitioners and public commenters urged council to put the question before voters, arguing residents should decide whether fee increases require voter approval. Public speaker George Kramer told council the petitioners tried to qualify but lacked validated signatures and asked the council to refer the item so voters can decide.
Council took public commentary and then voted after competing motions. The motion to submit the amendment passed on roll call; councilors recorded differing views on the dais and several said they would write statements for the voter pamphlet opposing the measure while supporting the council’s procedural decision to refer it.
