READING, Pa. – A committee of the Reading City Council of the Whole on Monday recommended the first steps to create a government study committee to consider whether the city should change its form of government or make changes to the existing one. steps were discussed.
In 1996, the City of Redding transitioned from a “committee” form of government to a “home rule strong mayor” form of government in which executive authority, executive authority, and law enforcement powers are vested in the mayor. The form of self-government was approved by voters on November 7, 1993.
The City Council is currently considering an ordinance that would authorize a referendum on issues related to the revised Home Rule Charter and the creation of a government commission to consider adopting a voluntary form of government for the City of Reading.
If approved, the government commission said, “under the changed form of government, the city's government would be strengthened, it would have clearer responsibilities and accountability to the people, or it would be more economical or efficient.'' This will determine whether or not you can become a target.
If the City Council approves the ordinance, city voters could be asked two questions at the next general election, scheduled for Nov. 5, 2024.
One question asks Redding voters whether they should establish a commission to study the city's form of government and compare it to other forms available under federal law.
Specifically, voters will be asked: “The government's commission of inquiry (7, 9, or 11) Will members be elected to study the existing form of government for the City of Reading and consider the advisability of adopting a revised Home Rule Charter, or will they recommend the adoption of any form of government?”
The second question, explained City Council Attorney Michael Gomber, asks voters to choose committee members from among the candidates on the ballot. If the designated number of members cannot be approved by voters, the establishment of the government review committee will fail. The City Council will decide on the number of commissioners.
The City Council needs to pass the ordinance in time for the referendum question to be placed on the ballot in November. If that happens and the commission is approved, it will conduct an investigation and submit a report and recommendations for changes or new forms of government, Gombar said. Voters will decide on that in subsequent elections.
Separately, Gombard also said that the city council must establish a charter review committee every five years, with 2024 being the fifth year since the last committee met in 2019. also pointed out. He noted that changing the city charter would be another way to change or amend the city charter. form of government.
City Council President Donna Reed asked councilors to further investigate the matter so it can be discussed at the May 6th full meeting.
traffic calming
Patrick White, a traffic engineer with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, gave a presentation on traffic calming. Traffic calming is the use of items such as speed bumps and roundabouts to slow traffic in a particular area.
“The only way to slow traffic is to put large physical objects in the way,” White explained.
There are no traffic calming projects underway in Redding. “Traffic calming must proceed slowly,” White advised.
Reed told City Council members they would meet again on April 29 to begin the policy development process.