City Council Meeting Date: June 2, 2026
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Ben Martig, City Administrator
Title
Consider Resolution Receiving Charter Amendment to Section 4.1 of the City Charter and Calling for a Public Hearing on Charter Amendment Proposed to be Adopted by Ordinance.
Body
Action Requested:
The Northfield City Council is asked to consider the attached resolution receiving the Charter Commission's proposed amendment as submitted and calling for a public hearing.
Summary Report:
The Northfield Charter Commission adopted the attached proposed changes to Charter Section 4.1 at their May 14, 2026 meeting by a vote of 5-1. Commissioner Jensen was not in attendance at the meeting. Charter Commission Chair CC Linstroth submitted the amendment to the City Administrator via email on May 26, 2026. Linstroth requested that staff initiate the process for City Council review of the amendment. Linstroth will be in attendance at the meeting to present the recommended Charter Amendment. Additionally, other Charter Commissioners were encouraged by the Chair to attend and would like a brief opportunity to introduce themselves.
This change specifically adds a reference to applicable State law requirements for charter cities. The amendment also includes complementary language intended to align more clearly with State law while providing additional clarification regarding the timing of assuming office and related oath of office requirements.
The current wording of Section 4.1 is provided below:
Section 4.1. - Council Meetings.
At its first meeting in January, the council shall meet at the usual place and time for the holding of council meetings. At this time any newly elected members of the council including the mayor shall, as the first order of business, be administered the oath of office and shall assume their duties. Thereafter, the council shall meet at such time as may be prescribed by resolution. Such a resolution shall remain in force until ...
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