Charter change for stronger democracy & inclusivity
Your attention to oneliner political signs and messages may be waning at this point in the election cycle, especially those playing to our fears instead of facts.
But you may still have questions.
Why is the Saratoga City Charter proposal for change on the ballot again this year? How is it an improvement to our democratic system? And how is it better for you?
Simply put, the new charter proposal will give all people throughout the city equal power and an equal voice. It will allow each neighborhood to be represented. The only job for each member of the City Council will be to represent you, the constituents.
Voting YES to this charter change means:
• Easier, effective input from you on the issues you care about in your neighborhood, directly through your representative.
• A broader more diverse pool of candidates for office because they run to represent people and neighborhoods, NOT to manage city hall departments full time for a part time salary. Everyone wins with greater representation and more accountability!
• Citizens have a stronger voice in the governmental process. The new proposal, with a city council governing body-representing neighborhoods and with a stronger Mayor, will give the citizens a bottomup form of government instead of top- down.
As our city grows, and becomes even more significant in New York State, our leadership roles and form of government must grow with it.
The City is not mandated to review or propose an update to our charter again until 2028. Thatmakes this year’s vote critically important. We came within only a few votes of passing charter change three years ago. More than 1500 resident signatures asked for it to be on the ballot again.
This is the year we need to move forward with new, better ways for a healthier tomorrow, from the presidential level on down.
The time is now to vote for a stronger future for Saratoga Springs, especially in the midst of a financial, economic and health crisis. A shored up democracy and oversight management system means stronger representation and planning for taxpayers, small businesses, working families, entrepreneurs, seniors and young professionals.
Please join me, VOTE YES to charter change on the back of your ballot.