Roughly one-quarter of all cities in the state are charter cities. Now two more may try to approve charters on the November ballot.
Arroyo Grande and Grover Beach are both going through a process of public comment that could result in the voters deciding whether or not to establish charters and take greater control over municipal affairs. That control could equal realized, annual savings totaling in the hundreds of thousands for Arroyo Grande. It’s estimated that the city would save between $50,000 and $200,000 per year with a charter.
The proposed charter in Arroyo Grande would maintain many of the protections offered by the State – known colloquially as the Anti-Bell language. Bell became notorious after Robert Rizzo and other officials were accused of bilking millions of dollars through inflated salaries and devious actions. However, if the charter is approved in Arroyo Grande, the state limits for salaries would remain untouched, as would the ability to raise taxes.
From the Times Press Recorder:
Grover Beach and Arroyo Grande city councils are considering ballot measures to convert from general law to charter cities to cut municipal costs and give local businesses an edge in providing goods and services.
But Pismo Beach officials rejected the idea four years ago because the change could ultimately cost more than it might save.
“Those folks who are considering it … ought to look carefully at the second and third consequences,” cautioned Kevin Rice, Pismo Beach city manager.
Read the full article here.