Read the RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ROSA ESTABLISHING A CHARTER REVIEW COMMITTEE AND GIVING DIRECTIONS FOR 2022 CHARTER REVIEW

What is a City Charter?

A charter is, in essence, a constitution for a city. It sets forth the main principles of the city government and can be amended at any time with approval of the voters. For example, the City of Santa Rosa’s charter has sections establishing the seven member City Council, the selection and powers of the mayor, key staff positions for public safety and others, rules on board participation, and even how water and sewer rates are reviewed, among others. Review the City Charter.

Why is the Charter being reviewed?

The Santa Rosa Charter has been amended periodically and, most recently, was updated through the work of a charter review committee in 1994, 2002 and 2012. In fact, section 12 of the charter itself states the review must occur approximately every ten years. That review is now getting underway, and the framework for the committee’s work is now being developed.

How will it be reviewed?

The charter will be reviewed through a City Council-appointed committee, which council has committed would be comprised of a diversity of city residents. At this time, council has appointed 21 committee members for the purpose of city charter review. The August 3 City Council Study Session helped determine how that committee may proceed in its formation and its possible duties. The committee will be charged with review of current charter provisions and recommendations for revisions. 

Who is on the Charter Review Committee?

The City Charter Review Committee held its first meeting on Nov. 17, 2021, to discuss initial logistical and procedural components of the formation of the committee. Watch the replay.

The below list includes all current members of the charter review committee and who on the city council appointed them: