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The Town Charter

 

A town's charter is similar to the US Constitution.  It provides the general framework on how the government is to be run.  Unlike laws and ordinances, the charter cannot be changed by lawmakers alone; charter changes require the approval of the voters.

 

The town charter insures that major decisions are made in a calm, deliberative manner that has citizen approval.

 

 What would you like to see in your town charter? Minimize
Term limits are a double edged sword, they can prevent an elected official from amassing unreasonable influence, but they also limit experience levels. What do you see as a reasonable term limit?
The proposed charter for Palm Harbor currently calls for a mayor/council/manager form of government. Do you agree this is the proper solution for Palm Harbor?
Elections in many jurisdictions are increasingly non-partisan. The feeling seems to be that rigid adherence to party ideology contributes little to the debate and, in fact, hinders finding workable solutions to increasingly difficult problems. In addition, financial support from national parties distorts what should be a reflection of support in the community. Do you support the concept of non-partisan elections in the Town of Palm Harbor?
Should the mayor be independently elected for a full term or chosen by the council each year from among it's members?
Low voter turnouts are almost always blamed on voter apathy. More likely, working parents with football practice, teacher conferences, PTA, dinner, etc., just don't have time. Which of the following methods would you like to see implemented for alternate voting in town elections or referendums?
New cities are generally formed over voter dissatisfaction with taxes and zoning issues. With regard to zoning issues, almost all are routine and boring. Dissatisfaction comes mostly from zoning changes in building height or zoning density. What method would you prefer for major zoning changes?
Ethics laws are generally addressed in town charters by incorporation of the Florida Ethics Statutes. Based on what you've seen regarding the ethical behavior of Florida politicians, do you think those statutes are adequate?
The City of Weston (pop. 65,793) recently incorporated in Broward County under a concept known as "city-lite". The city, with a budget of over $100,000,000 a year has only 3 city employees (those required by state law). All city services are provided by contracts with private sector vendors or other government entities. Do you think fostering competition for the provision of city services is the smartest way to go?
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