On May 3^rd, 2025 Zachary residents will vote on an updated Home Rule Charter, which outlines how the city is run.  This is the first update in 15 years.  The changes are intended to improve clarity and efficiency in the city's Plan of Government.

 
ZACHARY HOME RULE CHARTERUPDATE:  What You Need to Know

 
Key Changes in the Charter:

1. Council Members (Section 2-01 & 2-02):

Provides Council Members with clearer rules on residence.    
If a council member no longer meets qualifications, they automatically lose their position.

2. Council Meetings (Section 2-08):

Provides flexibility to schedule meetings.
The Mayor Pro Tempore, not the mayor, will run council meetings.

3. Mayor’s Absence (Section 3-06):

Sets up a clear plan for who takes charge if the Mayor is temporarily unavailable or disabled.  

4. Mayor, Police Chief and Council Pay (Sections 2-03 & 3-07 & 4-06):

Clarifies how compensation for elected officials is to be set and adjusted.

5. City Administration (Sections 4-01 to 4-05):

Department heads don’t have to live in Zachary.
Lists responsibilities for Chief Administrative Officer and Chief Financial Officer.

6. Police Department (Section 4-06):

Confirms the Police Chief also serves as the City Marshal.
Allows the Police Chief to appoint a Deputy City Marshal.

6. City Budget (Section 5-02):

Reduces the budget proposal timeline from 60 to 45 days.
Provides if the council doesn’t approve a budget, 90% of the previous year’s budget becomes the default

7. City Bonds (Section 5-08):

Requires majority council approval to issue bonds and take on debt.

 
These updates aim to strengthen city government, improve clarity, and make operations more efficient.  Be sure to vote on May 3^rd.

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 Note:  The amended charter may be reviewed on the official website of the City of Zachary – here

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