"We got our thing, but it's just part of the big thing." - Zenobia

Today, I had the opportunity to meet Charter Commission member Marsha Campbell.
Ms. Campbell came across as very down to earth and genuine, she also I might add has good taste in eating establishments. I met up with the other members of the Memphis Change Coalition or the Justice Posse as I refer to us, at a little plate lunch place around the Winchester area just east of the Airport."Ummmm Chicken and Dressing....aggghhhhhh." Ms. Campbell met us there. She was very supportive of our campaign to educate the public about the Charter Commission and the upcoming ballot initiatives, and to promote positive change here in Memphis. She spoke of a need of our citizens to reject ego based politics, and lamented the lack of community spirit. She also expressed her sense of responsibility for today's youth and hopes for a revitalization in the City of Memphis
She also agreed to participate in some of our community forums which we have planned for the fall.What was really refreshing was that when she did not know something...she said so, and did not engage in alot of politico doublespeak.
All in all it was a good meeting and I hope the start of a fruitful collaboration.

Also on tap today was a Meeting of the full Charter Commission at City Hall

The meeting...was very interesting. Lowery and Brown snapped at each other the whole time for one thing...and while Lowery seemed to try and be amiable Brown seemed irritated at the whole process. His comments however seemed to be on solid ground..mostly. All members were present, and the final wording process has started. It was confirmed that all initiatives would be given an individual up or down vote, all members agreed.
the issues confirmed to appear on the ballot at this time are.

Term limits-However there was some disagreement over if the wording of "Two Terms" would change to "three terms' depending on the results of the County Charter Term Limits vote. Lowery was in favor of such a change, Brown was not.

MLG&W- No changes

Staggered Terms- All that remains is to determine what method to use. Even numbered districts vs. Odd, Super Districts running for shorter terms...etc.

IRV- Remains the same, however there was a challenge and attempt to reconsider this issue by Commissioners Campbell,Fullilove and Lowery.
This challenge failed and the referendum remains set for the ballot.

Mayoral Vacancies- This referendum would state that if the Mayor, resigns, or for some reason can no longer serve, then the Council Chairman would serve as Mayor Pro Tem for a period no longer than 180 days, if there is a general municipal or special election in that time period. If no such election exist then then the Chairman will serve for 90 days at which time a special election will be held to elect a new mayor to serve out the remainder of the term.

Ethics- There clearly is a desire for clarification on the part of the commission on this issue and it was tabled until the legal staff could investigate this matter further.It will be discussed at the July 30th Meeting

Also for discussion on July 30th
-Consideration of Part Time Judges

-Making the Charter Commission a regular process every-10-20 years.

For consideration at the Aug 14th meeting.

-Commissioner George Brown proposed a referendum that would state that no legislative body could limit the powers of the Mayor. That could only be done by referendum. When it was remarked by Commissioner Lowery that this could be considered retaliation for the City Council considering limiting the Mayor's contracting authority,Brown glibly agreed.
Personal note-
This is a step in a really bad direction, considering the tension and rancor that already exists between the City Council and the Memphis City School Board. The last thing anyone needs is another meaningless and spiteful confrontation, over what?...
The Council has the power to add referendums to the ballot, just because members of the Charter Commission disagreed with the need for said provision,is not relevant as the people of Memphis would be making the decision either way. If you disagree, then make yourself a blog, print up some flyers, make a sign and get out in the streets and convince people to vote it down.
Besides, it's not like the Council IS actually trying to limit the Mayor's power, they are simply CONSIDERING giving people a say in the matter. Judge George Brown is one of the most well respected legal minds around, but that does not always make him right.


Tomorrow, we meet with Charter Commission member and Former School Board member Willie Brooks.