The State Constitution allows cities to be governed for its municipal affairs (land use and zoning, city expenditures, contractual rights) either as a “General Law” city (controlled by the State Legislature) or as a “Charter” city (a “mini constitution” – established and controlled by local voters and the City Council). Cities that do not adopt a “Charter” by the will of its voters are considered a “General Law” city.
Cathedral City is currently a “General Law” city controlled by the state legislature for its municipal affairs. The City Council is calling on the voters to permit the City to become a “Charter” city and adopt the language of its “Charter.” According to the League of California Cities, six other Coachella Valley cities are governed by a “Charter” including Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells, Desert Hot Springs, La Quinta, and Palm Desert.
The City Council would like your input on the proposed draft Charter that may be put forward to the voters of Cathedral City on the November General Election ballot. (Draft Charter: https://goo.gl/Oz6gMw)
If there are items that you feel need to be amended, now is the time to let the Council know. Please forward your comments via email to Deputy City Clerk Tracey Martinez at tmartinez@cathedralcity.gov, fax (760) 770-0399, or telephone at (760) 770-0322.
Additionally, the Council will hold a final public hearing at City Hall, Council Chambers, 68-700 Avenida Lalo Guerrero on July 20, 2016 at 5:00 p.m. You are welcome to attend and voice your position.
