Charter Review Meeting 032526

The City of San Bernardino Charter Review Committee convened on March 30, 2026, to discuss potential amendments to the city charter, focusing primarily on term limits for elected officials, the role and powers of the mayor, and improvements to the council-manager form of government. Public comments emphasized the need for term limits to encourage fresh leadership and accountability, while committee members debated the effectiveness and implications of such limits. A significant portion of the meeting addressed the mayor's authority, including proposals to grant the mayor the power to nominate the city manager to enhance accountability and leadership, though concerns about balance of power and historical challenges were raised. The committee also discussed the importance of public outreach, proposing educational forums and surveys to inform residents about the charter and gather input on potential amendments. No formal votes on charter amendments were taken, but the committee agreed to continue exploring these issues and to coordinate with city staff on public engagement strategies.