Proposed Town Charter Amendments (Council Size and Mayoral Term)

Argued that reducing council size consolidates power and harms representation for Black residents and marginalized communities who rely on larger boards to elect diverse voices.

Shared historical context on why the council was expanded in the 1975 charter change to ensure diverse representation, warning against four-year mayoral terms creating two classes of council members.

Expressed deep concern over the lack of transparency and community engagement, urging the council to pause and involve low-income and minority residents.

Argued that a four-year mayoral term has no redeeming social value, acts as a form of gerrymandering, and reduces voter accountability in a council-manager form of government.

Highlighted the lack of outreach to low-income and fixed-income residents, warning that smaller councils would reduce diverse representation.

Criticized the timing and lack of public engagement, urging the council to keep the current arrangement and put major changes to a public referendum.

Expressed outrage that legacy and minority communities were not consulted, arguing that two-year mayoral terms maintain essential leadership accountability.

Spoke against altering the council configuration or extending mayoral terms, emphasizing the ongoing struggles for civil rights, housing, and equitable community participation.