Residents demand vote on controversial city charter changes

During a recent city council meeting in Benoit, significant concerns were raised regarding proposed changes to the city’s governance structure, particularly the potential elimination of the mayoral position and the shift to an all-at-large council. Residents expressed strong opposition to these changes, emphasizing the need for local representation.

Council members discussed the idea of having one representative per ward alongside four at-large seats. However, some voiced fears that this could lead to inadequate representation for certain wards, particularly if the council were to consist solely of at-large members. One resident lamented the possibility of two wards lacking representation, stating, “It makes me extremely sad that that could happen.”

Long-time resident Anthony Powell passionately argued against the proposed changes, asserting that they would strip citizens of their right to vote for the mayor. He likened the situation to a hypothetical scenario where a prominent political figure dictated voting choices, urging the council to place the decision on the ballot for public vote. Powell highlighted the city’s reliance on property taxes and insisted that residents should have a say in governance changes.

Mario Cross, another resident, echoed Powell’s sentiments, advocating for a ballot measure to allow citizens to voice their opinions on the proposed charter changes. He criticized the idea of council members selecting the mayor, arguing that it could lead to unequal representation across wards.

Diana Price, representing Ward 2, also opposed the changes, reminding the council that the community had previously elected a strong mayor through a democratic process. She emphasized the importance of honoring the will of the voters.

The meeting underscored a growing sentiment among residents that any changes to the city’s governance should be decided by the electorate rather than solely by council members. As discussions continue, the call for a democratic process remains a central theme among community members.