11/21/1991 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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e Councilors agreed to consider all aspects of the proposed ballot measure. Mr. Gary said the ballot title, question, and explanation need to explain to the voters the nature of the changes that the measure would effect. He de- scribed those as three major policy shifts: 1) the center of power would shift from the council to the Mayor; 2) the Mayor's power would be expanded; and 3) anti-patronage provisions of Section 16 of the City Charter would be eliminated, making government positions political appointments. Mr. Gary explained that his charge in preparing the ballot information was not to provide arguments for or against but to describe the major changes that would result from passage of the measure. He maintained that the move from a "Council/Manager" style of government and the compensation of an elected official were the most significant of those changes. Mr. Sweet accused the City Attorney's Office of a conflict of interest arising from its involvement in a class action suit, and said that the proposed ballot measure was an issue that would be decided by Eugene's citizens. Councilors discussed what should be included as the most significant changes the measure would effect. At 12:03 p.m., Mr. Rutan left the meeting and Council Vice President Boles assumed the chair. After suggesting several alternatives for the wording of the ballot title, councilors agreed to the following: "Eliminates Council/Manager government; e paid Mayor assumes administrative/executive duties." With Ms. Bascom continuing to prefer different wording, councilors generally agreed that the ballot question should ask, "Shall City Charter be revised adopting new form of government, administered by Mayor and eliminating Coun- cil-appointed City Manager position?" With objections to parts of sentences being voiced by councilors, the follow- ing Ballot Explanation was proposed: Revises City Charter and adopts new form of government. Current charter establishes Council/Manager government, vesting most power in elected Council. Council appoints and dismisses City Manager who oversees City operations. Manager is accountable to Council. Unpaid, elected Mayor presides at Council, breaks tie votes, has veto power. Measure eliminates City Manager, combining Manager's administrative duties with Mayor's pre-existing legislative and executive powers. Mayor becomes paid position. Removes restrictions and safeguards on administrative powers. Requires vacancy in Mayor's office be filled by special election. e MINUTES--Eugene City Council November 21, 1991 Page 2 Special Meeting