City Council Opposes County Charter Plan

Measure T, which would establish a county charter if approved by voters March 26, is being officially opposed by the City Council.

Before taking action this week, council members heard an impartial evaluation of the ballot measure by a representative of the League of Women Voters. A backer and an opponent of the charter then presented their cases.

Those favoring Measure T argue that it would make county government more efficient by creating a management system similar to private business. Opponents contend that a charter would place too much power in the hands of bureaucrats.

Councilman Bob Zemel, who joined the council majority in opposing Measure T, said a county charter would “increase the likelihood of additional taxation.”

Councilman Tom Tait said he was concerned that making the county treasurer-tax collector an appointive rather than an elective position, as Measure T calls for, would hamper attempts at government reform.

“I don’t think you ever get reform when you take away the power of the voters,” Tait said.

Mayor Tom Daly, the only council member favoring Measure T, said establishing a county charter would be “a necessary first step to streamline and reform government.”