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The changes were recommended by the 2007 Charter Review Commission, which was chaired by council member Clarence Fenner.
One recommendation, if approved, would allow the city treasurer to report directly to the mayor and not the city council.
“The day-to-day operations of the city require a new communications method. This will open up a direct line of communication without the need to have five council members present at the same time,” said Bay City Mayor Richard Knapik.
He added it would also help keep the city on track.
The second recommendation, if approved, would give the city the ability to establish and organize a planning commission.
If approved, the mayor would appoint a sub-committee to work with existing organizations to come up with by-laws that will be approved by council.
City Attorney JL Ziegenhals wrote that the commission is needed due to the growth being experienced in certain sectors of the city. “The concern is that unregulated growth can hinder the quality of life, but regulated growth can enhance it. The commission feels that the change would allow for a speedier and more efficient way for the city to address these requirements.”
The mayor added that the commission, if approved, would allow the city to work closely with Bay City United Phase 3, a United Community Vision.
“There were thoughts of not holding an election at all in May because the two council seats are unopposed but the commission spent many hours on the charter review and the city felt they would be doing them a disservice to postpone the vote,” he said.