The Charter functions like a constitution for local government. It establishes the structure, powers, and responsibilities of our county government, allowing us to tailor the county's operations beyond the general guidelines provided by state regulations. It establishes and defines the separation of powers between the executive and legislative branches. It establishes procedures for things like initiatives, referendums, ordinances, motions, contracts, and franchises. It also promotes transparency through provisions like the ethics code.
The charter is not a place for policies or ordinances. The County Council is the legislative branch of our local government. They are responsible for developing policies and local ordinances. Issues such as transportation, housing development, zoning, taxation, and public safety fall into the responsibility of the County Council.
The role of the commission is to review the Charter and propose amendments to be adopted by Clark County voters. They will hold regular public meetings while they work on setting priorities and developing the resolutions that will become ballot measures. There will be numerous opportunities for residents of Clark County to provide comments on the commission's priorities and the proposed amendments.