How does a citizen create and implement a city constitution?

Question

I would like to constrain our city government by a constitution but not sure what the steps are...

Answer 1

Can a city even have a Constitution? States have constitutions, because they are outlined in the U.S. Constitution. Cities seem to be somewhat independent of that process.

If you wish to check your cities leaders, I'd recommend that you look into amending your state's Constitution. Just like how the U.S. Constitution can directly affect the states, a State Constitution can directly affect the cities.

Your city probably has some sort of charter, which may or may not have the ability of being edited. You should contact a city councilman, or your state's Attorney General's office to check into this more.

Answer 2

Are you wishing to incorparate an area? I would get a copy of a City Charter of a area near the size that your's will be. It's a book of 'ordinaces.' There is much to be considered when doing this. Your laws must be in compliance with state and federal laws. I'm sure you have the list of areas that will need to be included, such as health laws, law enforcement, utilities, a city council or 'commission', fire codes and dept., etc. Good luck!