NEW: Providence Charter Review Commission to Hold First Meeting

Monday, January 30, 2012

The Charter Review Commission will hold its first meeting on Wednesday, February 1st. Members of the public are invited to attend.

The newly appointed members of the commission include five Council appointees: Clifford J. Wood, Michael Van Leesten, Leonard Lopes, Lucie Searle, and John Simmons; and four mayoral appointees: Jose F. Batista, Roberto Gonzalez, Meghan Grady, and David B. Green.

“The charter review process is an important opportunity for the public to impact how city government operates,” stated Council President Michael A. Solomon. “The commission is made up of residents, business owners, and interested community members who will guide the process, and engage the public in this important discussion.”

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Every 10 years, a commission is appointed by the City Council and the Mayor to review and make recommendations regarding the Providence Home Rule Charter. The charter, first adopted in 1980, is the City’s guiding document and provides the framework for the form of government, defines the duties and powers of the branches of government, and gives the public a voice in how the City will provide services.

Upon completion of its review, the commission will submit a report of its recommendations to the Council. The Council will then vote on which proposed Charter amendments to place on the November 2012 ballot. All changes to the Charter must be approved by Providence voters.

The last Charter changes were approved by voters in 2006, and included setting term limits for the City Council and Mayor, a provision which went into effect this year.

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