TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Jarad Hildenbrand, City Manager
1. SUBJECT
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City Charter Discussion
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2. SUMMARY
California Government Code Sections 34450-34462 set forth the procedures to adopt a city charter. There are two approaches. First, the City Council may place a question on a special or general election ballot asking voters to approve the creation of a charter commission. If approved, the charter commission would develop a draft charter that would later be placed on a subsequent ballot for voter consideration. Alternatively, the City Council may draft a charter and submit it directly to voters at a special or general election.
In recent years, several California cities have explored charter status to evaluate potential flexibility in areas such as public contracting, fiscal policy, and local governance. On January 13, 2026, the City Council directed staff to develop a draft City Charter. The draft City Charter is presented for City Council discussion, and staff seeks direction on how to proceed.
3. RECOMMENDED ACTION
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Review and discuss the draft City Charter and provide direction to staff.
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4. FISCAL IMPACT
None.
5. STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS
Adoption of a City Charter could support or affect multiple goals outlined in the Fiscal Years 2025-2030 Citywide Strategic Plan.
6. DISCUSSION AND BACKGROUND
The following provides an overview of the similarities and differences between general law and charter cities. Additionally, this analysis details the procedures to adopt a city charter.
General Law vs. Charter Cities
California law authorizes two legal structures for municipal organizations - general law or charter law. General law cities (i.e., the City of Orange) draw much of their authority from State of California (State) statutes. Charter cities derive select authority from a locally adopted charter as authorized in Article XI of the California Constitution. Cities often pursue charter status...
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