AWC supports streamlining the process for changing a city’s form of government.

HB 6643, sponsored by Sen. Dean Takko (D–Longview), allows for cities to submit a resolution to the vote of the people to change the city’s form of government to council-manager and directly elect a council chair (mayor) in the same election.

Previously, cities were first required to submit a resolution for voter approval to change the form of government to council-manager. Cities would then need to wait until the next general election if they wanted to put to a vote the option to directly elect a council chair (mayor).

This new process will enable cities to more quickly change the form of government to better serve residents.

Dates to remember

HB 6443 is scheduled for public hearing in the Senate Local Government Committee at 8 am on Tuesday, February 4.