2 charter questions also on ballot in April 7 city election
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In addition to candidates, the April 7 city election includes two charter-change ballot questions.
Both were placed on the ballot by City Council. Neither would cost taxpayers more money, according to Councilmember Don Knight, whose District 1 includes the northern part of the Westside. Issue 1 - In a phone interview, Knight described Issue 1 as “a bit of cleanup,” based on the charter assigning council control of Colorado Springs Utilities but authorizing the mayor to approve all contracts. A problem could arise when the mayor needs to approve Utilities contracts. The charter change would give council that power, Knight explained. Issue 2 - Council currently is budgeted to have its own administrator. But the mayor has hiring and firing powers. A conflict emerged two years ago when current Mayor Steve Bach fired an administrator selected by council (and over its objections). The charter change would give council the power to hire/fire its administrator. Westside Pioneer article |