DENVER (KDVR) — Earlier this year, the Board of Douglas County Commissioners initiated the process of transitioning from a statutory form of government into a home rule county charter form of government.
Through June 24, residents will have an opportunity to vote on the matter during a special election. Voters will specifically be asked if a County Home Rule Charter Commission should be elected to “study the structure and organization of Douglas County Government,” according to the ballot language.
Free on Your TV • New FOX31+ App for Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV
Voters then will have choices for charter commission members who could be elected, should the original question pass.
A home rule charter allows residents of a particular county or municipality more control over local matters. In some cases, home rule empowers local governments to pass ordinances that supersede state law. But if it’s a statewide concern or mixed concern, state law can supersede the local ordinance. This link provides greater details about what home rule charters are allowed to regulate and control.
Board says home rule would provide ‘freedoms’
The board said in its initial announcement of its plan that mask mandates, overturned property tax reductions and bag fees are some of the state mandates imposed on Douglas County, and said that the new form of government would give the county “some freedoms from State policies.”…