La Mirada City Council Forms City Charter Exploratory Committee

By Brian Hews

 

The City Council established the City Charter Exploratory Committee during Tuesday’s meeting.  The five member committee will be charged with reviewing the potential advantages of becoming a charter city and preparing a draft charter for the Council’s consideration.

Applications will be accepted for those interested in serving on the City Charter Exploratory Committee until September 20.  Committee members must be at least 18 years old, United States citizens and residents of La Mirada.

The City Charter Exploratory Committee will meet at least monthly, or more often if needed, to review charter city issues and draft the proposed city charter.  The committee will explore the differences between charter cities and general law cities, review municipal affairs over which charter cities have authority, identify advantages of becoming a charter city, discuss charter contents, and prepare a draft city charter.

There are currently 121 charter cities in California, including nearby Buena Park, Cerritos and Whittier.

“Charter cities work under the home-rule provision of the state constitution,” says City Manager Designee Jeff Boynton.  “This committee will be looking at whether a charter could increase local control and provide other benefits for La Mirada.”

Residents interested in serving on the committee may complete an application and submit it to City Hall by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20.  Applications are available at City Hall and on the City’s website www.cityoflamirada.org.