Bill > SB2702

This bill revises various provisions of the City of Charlotte's charter, which is the foundational document outlining the city's governmental structure and powers. Key changes include clarifying who qualifies as an "elector" (a voter) by specifying property ownership requirements for non-residents, and adjusting how the city can levy and collect taxes for general purposes, excluding debt repayment. The bill also modifies the city's corporate powers, allowing it to acquire and manage property for various public uses, including industrial sites and open spaces, and to provide a wide range of public facilities and services. It redefines the composition and powers of the City Council, establishing that the Mayor and six Councilmen form the Council, which holds all legislative powers, and clarifies rules regarding council meetings and their ability to compel testimony. The role of the City Clerk is updated to include providing monthly financial statements and maintaining meeting minutes. The bill also outlines a process for codifying, or organizing and updating, the city's ordinances into an official code. Furthermore, it clarifies the Mayor's administrative duties, including executive leadership, enforcement of laws, and the power to appoint and remove city officers and employees, as well as their role in submitting budgets and acting as a purchasing agent if no other employee is designated. The establishment and operation of a city court, presided over by a city judge, are detailed, along with provisions for appointing an acting judge and a city court clerk. The bill also specifies the Mayor's responsibility for submitting an annual budget to the Council, detailing revenue and expenditures, and establishes a centralized purchasing system managed by the Mayor or a designated employee, with rules for awarding contracts to the lowest responsible bidder. Finally, it allows for an annual audit of the city's financial records by a certified public accountant. Importantly, these changes will only take effect if approved by a two-thirds vote of the City of Charlotte's legislative body.

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/Default?BillNumber=SB2702&ga=114