In a recent city council meeting, the City of Monroe made two significant organizational changes, and one of them has raised serious concerns regarding its adherence to both the city’s charter and the Louisiana Constitution. This action reflects irresponsibility and a troubling willingness to disregard established rules and regulations.
Mayor Friday Ellis sought the council’s permission to reorganize the city’s planning department and place it under the Engineering department. Additionally, he requested changes to the authorities of directors in various departments. While the city’s charter grants the mayor the authority to reorganize departments with council approval, it’s essential to remember that the charter itself, akin to the city’s constitution, cannot be altered without a vote by the public.
The city’s new attorney, Brandon Creekbaum, recommended the amendment language in the ordinance despite appeals from Councilwoman Juanita Woods, who astutely pointed out the glaring conflict with the charter.
Monroe’s charter explicitly states, “Proposals by the council to amend or repeal this charter shall be submitted for ratification to the qualified electors of the City, preferably in an election already scheduled for other purposes, otherwise in a special election called by the council.”
Furthermore, both the Monroe Charter and the Louisiana State Constitution emphasize that changes to the charter require the approval of the public through a majority vote. The Louisiana Constitution in Article 6, Section 5(c) is explicit, stating, “A home rule charter shall be adopted, amended, or repealed when approved by a majority of the electors voting thereon at an election held for that purpose.”
These constitutional and charter provisions exist to ensure that any alterations to the charter, the city’s guiding document, are made with the consent of the electorate, and they underscore the importance of a public referendum when fundamental changes are proposed.
In this particular instance, the council’s decision to remove duties from the Director of Programs and Urban Development, transferring them to the city engineer, directly impacts the charter and necessitates a public vote. The changes substantially diminish the responsibilities of the Director of Programs and Urban Development, a move that should only be made with the expressed approval of the public.
While the mayor is indeed granted authority to reorganize departments, the charter explicitly requires the city council to involve the voters through a public referendum when altering the duties and responsibilities of department heads.
Councilwoman Juanita Woods deserves commendation for her steadfast commitment to upholding the Charter and the Constitution. Her adherence to these fundamental principles ensures that the rights and voices of the citizens are protected and respected.
It is incumbent upon the city council, the mayor, and the city attorney to correct this oversight and proceed in strict accordance with the law. Ignoring the charter and the Constitution sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the very foundations of our democratic system.
Monroe’s citizens deserve nothing less than a government that operates with transparency, integrity, and respect for its own governing documents.
