The Harlander
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Charter/CodeLet us take a moment to opine upon things political. We have just recently approved a new City Charter. It set history in many ways. We have changed our form of government, something that has not been done since Home Rule became the standard back in the 1960s. We protected the land holders with our innovative take on the powers of eminent domain and we have chosen to hold those that serve us to a higher value imposed by a Charter Review and Compliance Commission.
There is yet another document that more specifically defines us, The Code. It is the law that we, through our elected official have chosen to govern ourselves. The Code must always be in compliance with the Charter. Aye and there’s the rub.
I will admit for my part, I have been very impatient with the progress of implementing our new Charter (the will of the people). The fault is mine. The Code is based upon Charters past. The Code is very complex dealing with issues of Code of Ethics for pubic officials to how long weeds may grow and what constitutes a public disturbance. I am just now becoming aware of the enormity of the task of bringing our code into compliance with our brand new Charter. I have a new respect for our City Council and our City Attorney.
I would like to thank my fellow Charter Commissioner, Nancy Gimberline, for bringing this to my attention.
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