Explanation
This ordinance provides for the submission to the electors of the city of Columbus the question of amending the Charter of the City of Columbus ("charter"), as hereinafter described. Such question is based on the recommendations of the 2014 Columbus Charter Review Commission ("commission").
On June 30, 2014, the Charter Review Commission, appointed by Mayor Michael B. Coleman and Council President Andrew J. Ginther, adopted twenty-one (21) recommendations. A report summarizing those recommendations was submitted on July 7, 2014 and is attached to this ordinance.
Based on council's consideration of the commission's recommendations, council proposes a ballot question regarding city administration. Proposed Charter Amendment No. 1, City Administration, addresses the following:
· A new section establishes that no officer, employee, or agent of the city shall deny equal access to city services, or equal opportunity in employment and promotion, or the benefits thereof, to any person on the basis of race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, disability, family or military status, or any other status that is protected by federal, state, or local law or ordinance.
· A new section establishes a charter review commission every ten years. Members must be Columbus residents, cannot hold office or employment with the city, and may not be paid. Council shall appoint two members, the mayor shall appoint two members, and the council president and mayor shall jointly appoint the chair. The commission must conduct a comprehensive review of the charter and report recommendations within six months. Council may submit any recommendation, in whole or in part, to electors. This provision does not limit council's authority to submit charter amendments, or limit appointment of commissions more frequently.
· A new section establishes a process for making technical changes to the charter by a 30...
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