05/17/2005: "Freeholders To Ask Your Opinion on Their Opinions"

George Johnson and Steve Brandt Before BOCC - Francine Shaw of Planning in Background
Freeholder Chairman George Johnson recently appeared before the County Commissioners to present an up-date on where the Freeholders are in writing a charter, and where they are going with it. Chairman Johnson informed the BOCC that the Freeholders were preparing to go to the public with a brochure that would both explain what the Freeholders are considering to put in the charter, and to ask for input from the public on their proposals to date.

As of the last meeting that was held on Lopez, the current draft of the charter will include the following:

1. Six County Commissioners (or "Council Member") elected from districts

2. County Administrator to serve at the will of the Commission

3, Initiatives and Referendums to be allowed

4. Sheriff, Clerk, Auditor, Assessor and Treasurer to be non-partisan offices.

It is has been suggested the brochure should include both pro and con arguments on the above, but it is not clear if this will be included, and if it is, who would prepare the con arguments against what is being proposed. In addition to the brochure, a survey form will be made available to the public to receive public input on the proposals. The Freeholders plan to hold meetings, speak to groups, and in general find out what is most likely to be approved by the public when the charter goes to the voters in November.