Proposed Charter
Amendment Measure
July 8, 2024
Background
• On July 2, 2024, Mayor Van Der Mark, Mayor Pro Tem Burns, and Council Member McKeon submitted a Council Member
Item to place on the ballot a proposed Charter Amendment stating:
• "No City initiated general plan amendment or zoning change may be approved by the City where the related environmental review (EIR) finds the same proposed general plan update or zoning change presents ‘significant and unavoidable’ negative impacts to the environment, without first receiving approval by a vote of the people.”
• The proposed Charter Amendment should include language to the effect of "City Planning and Zoning is a local, ‘municipal affair,’ beyond the reach of State control or interference; and City Planning and Zoning is a local activity reserved for the City and its people, and not the State." • The City Council directed staff to bring back a proposed November 2024 ballot initiative within thirty (30) days for City Council approval.
Proposed Charter Language
• No City initiated general plan amendment or zoning change may be approved by the City where the related environmental review (EIR) finds the same proposed general plan update or zoning change presents significant and unavoidable negative impacts to the environment, without first receiving approval by the affirmative vote of at least a majority of the electors voting on such proposition at a general or special election at which such proposition is submitted. City Planning and Zoning is a local, municipal affair, beyond the reach of State control or interference, a local activity reserved for the City and its people, not the State.
Proposed Ballot Question
“Shall proposed Charter Amendment No. 1, which would amend the City Charter to state that City Planning and Zoning is a local, municipal affair, and require voter approval of City initiated general plan amendments or zoning changes when such items present significant and unavoidable negative impacts to the environment, be approved?”
YES
NO
• Consider the proposed Charter amendment ballot measure, ballot language, and exhibits for placement on the November 5, 2024, General Municipal Election for voter approval; and • Adopt Resolution Nos.
• 2024-38 – Ordering the Submission to the Qualified Electors of the City a Certain Charter Amendment Measure Relating to Environmental Protection at the November 5, 2024, General Municipal Election
• 2024-39 – Setting Priorities for Filing Written Arguments and Impartial Analysis
• 2024-40 – Filing of Rebuttal Arguments
Recommended Action