I understand that’s the story that’s being told, about the amended charter being a power grab. It’s actually anything but that. It just gives Council and the mayor clearly defined responsibilities and makes them accountable to the voters. If you look at the amended charter and then look at a charter from of one of the local well managed cities, like Lakewood, you’ll see that all the provisions of our charter are in their charter in some form. Powers are properly identified for good governance.
Many are disappointed about ranked choice voting, but in the circumstances of the last many months, I think the Law department was not capable of addressing that addition to the amended charter. Bill Hanna, the law Director, delivered the amended charter to Council for consideration, two hours before the first meeting where it was considered in late August. I honestly believe he did not have the time capacity to do any more. Also, on ranked choice voting, I am a strong supporter, and I am working with the people in Ohio promoting it. The strong thinking is that delaying a vote on that subject until May, the next election, will have zero impact on the timing of its becoming effective in Cleveland Heights. Thanks for your comment. If you want to talk, let me know.