DRAFT HOME RULE CHARTER AVAILABLE

Draft of Home Rule Charter now available.
NOTE: This entry was published on December 19, 2024 and the information may now be out of date.

A DRAFT version of the proposed Home Rule Charter is now available for download. A Public Hearing will be scheduled in January to review the document.

DOWNLOAD DRAFT HOME RULE CHARTER (pdf)

A Home Rule Charter is a document that grants a city or municipality the authority to govern itself independently from state laws, within certain limits. This means the city can create its own laws and regulations, as long as they don’t conflict with state or federal laws. Essentially, it allows for more local control and flexibility in managing municipal affairs, such as zoning, public services, and local taxes.

In Texas, for example, cities with a population of more than 5,000 can adopt a Home Rule Charter through a vote by the residents. This charter acts like a local constitution, outlining the structure of the city government, the powers of elected officials, and the rights of citizens.

To learn more about the Home Rule Charter Committee or to submit questions or comments regarding the Draft Home Rule Charter document, visit the Home Rule Charter page now.