city charters

A city charter is a legal document that establishes a city’s fundamental rules and structure for local government. It outlines how the city is organized, who makes decisions, and how officials are chosen. Think of it as a "constitution" for the city, defining powers, responsibilities, and procedures to ensure the city operates smoothly and fairly. Charters can be adopted, amended, or updated by voters or city officials, providing a tailored governance framework suited to the community’s needs.