Bob’s Comments on the Home Rule Charter:

On November 8, 2005, the voters of San Juan County approved a new county Charter (To view a copy of the 17-page Charter, visit the county website: www.sanjuanco.com ). The Home Rule Charter went into effect January 9, 2006. As a current County Council Member, I believe my role is to support and carry out the terms of charter government and continue to strive for excellence in serving the citizens of San Juan County.

Charter Review 2012

The Charter will be subject to its first citizen review in 2012.  In November 2011 there will be an election for a group of citizens who will undertake the review.  Selection of candidates will be an important part of the process.  Any voter who has been a County resident for at least five years may run from his or her district for a position on the Charter Review Committee.

Council Action and Duties under the Charter

Four votes are needed to pass any legislation. The change from a three member county commission to a six council member council in 2006 broadened representation.  However, the council  retained a requirement for a two-thirds affirmative vote for action. We in the new District 6 continue to have to work hard to keep our voices heard in county government.

Administrative and budget duties are carried out by the Administrator who reports back to the Council. Council Members continue to be responsible for all county ordinances and work with county departments, other elected officials, and commissions in order to stay apprised of countywide business and issues. Requirements for ordinances in the new Charter have required the county Council to meet more than the statutory provision of at least twice a month.  The Council has been meeting at least four times a month.  A salary commission composed of 10 county residents determines the salaries of the Council Members and all other elected officials, except the Superior Court Judge: sheriff, county clerk, auditor, assessor, treasurer, and prosecuting attorney.

Non-partisan Elections

Elections for sheriff, county clerk, auditor, assessor, treasurer, and county Council Members is non-partisan. The only partisan elected office is that of prosecuting attorney as required by state law.

Initiative and Referendum

The Charter allows for citizens to initiate new legislation through the initiative process and modify existing ordinances by referendum.

Detailed Analysis

Read the paper "Bob's Perspective on the Separation of Powers under the New Charter Government ".

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