Charter Review Special Committee; June 10, 2026

The Charter Review Special Committee of the CharmTV Citizens' Hub convened on June 10, 2026, to discuss two key charter amendments related to city utilities and parking management. The first amendment proposed creating a separate Department of Water and Wastewater to improve financial transparency, governance, and operational efficiency, particularly in light of recent financial challenges and bond rating downgrades faced by the wastewater utility. Multiple city agencies, including the Department of Finance and Planning, expressed support, while legal counsel highlighted technical considerations regarding stormwater management and departmental structure. The second amendment focused on establishing a Parking Benefits District Local Fund to allocate parking meter revenues specifically for neighborhood improvements. The discussion revealed concerns from the Department of Finance and Department of Transportation about potential impacts on the general fund, administrative burdens, and enforcement costs. Committee members debated the creation of an advisory commission to oversee fund distribution versus a formula-based approach. The meeting concluded with plans to revisit both amendments in a subsequent session, emphasizing the need for further refinement and timely resolution due to legislative deadlines.