City seeks input on charter

In preparing for the 2011 legislative session, Carson City is seeking input from residents to determine whether changes need to be made to the city's charter.

"Many people don't realize Carson City government operates under a city charter, which, in essence, is our city's constitution," said City Manager Larry Werner. "The charter can only be amended or repealed by the Nevada Legislature."

The city's charter dates back to 1969, when Carson City and Ormsby County were consolidated into a single municipal government, but there have been many amendments over the years.

Among other things, the charter sets the city's boundary lines, designates the wards and qualifications and powers for city supervisors and the mayor, sets provisions for ordinances and codes, bonding, zoning, utilities, officials' salaries, courts, elections and taxing.

The seven-member Carson City Charter Review Committee is required to hear and debate proposed amendments to the charter, after which it will present a written report of preliminary recommendations to the Board of Supervisors in July.

The committee is made up of Chairwoman Donna DePauw, Vice Chairman Ernie Adler, members Ronald Allen, Stephen Lincoln, Gail Parsons, Chris MacKenzie and Bruce Robertson.

For more information, call 887-2100.