Contrary to city official's statements, SJ's charter actually does outline a list of "charter departments"

 

King John signing the Magna Carta, 1215, English School, English School (Cassell's History of England - Century Edition), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

 

City officials curiously suggested recently that it's "subjective" to review what areas of activity the city should be paying for--and what the county should be paying for--because (officials claim) SJ's city charter doesn't "catalog" departments. SPUR and SJ's charter itself suggest otherwise. 

"Our charter defines governance, authority. It is not a catalog of city services. In fact, only about 35% of what the city does is actually covered in the city charter."--Lee Wilcox, Deputy City Manager, March 17 Council meeting.

SPUR says identifying departments is part of what a city charter does. From SPUR's website, "Understanding City Charters":

Mayoral Authority. The charter sets the scope for a mayor’s executive powers, including budget authority, appointment powers, and veto authority.

City Council Structure. The charter may set the size and composition of the council, the length of councilmember terms, the council’s powers, and how members are elected.

Key Officials. Beyond the mayor and council, charters establish several other positions that shape city operations, such as the city attorney, controller or finance director, city manager, and more.

Departments and Commissions. The charter establishes specific departments and oversight commissions.

Financial Management. Charter provisions establish a city’s financial management practices, including tax and revenue powers, financial oversight, and reserve requirements.

Elections. The charter establishes electoral systems including electoral process and timing, primary elections, and rank-choice voting.

Read more here.

SJ City charter identifies key "charter departments:"

SECTION 807. Administrative Organization; Other Departments. 

(a) The following Charter departments are hereby established: 

  • A Police Department

  • A Fire Department 

  • A Public Works Department

  • A Parks and Recreation Department

  • A Personnel Department

  • A Planning Department

  • An Airport Department

  • A Library Department. 

(b) Additional departments may be created by Council from time to time pursuant to Section 800. (c) Each department shall have such functions, powers and duties as Council may from time to time prescribe.

SJ City Charter

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christopher escher