During a recent city council meeting, significant discussions arose regarding the certification of ballot language for a proposed charter amendment, specifically the Ann Arbor Fair Election Fund. Councilmember Disch highlighted that the city clerk was required to certify the ballot language by August 13, following the submission of petitions in late July. However, concerns were raised about the accuracy of the ballot language, which was deemed to conflict with state law.

Councilmember Bridal urged the public to review a letter attached to the clerk's report, which stated that the ballot proposal does not comply with state regulations, encouraging voters to reject it. Councilmember Revenor inquired whether the petition initiators were informed of the governor's office request for timely submission of the petition language. The city clerk confirmed that while the law does not align with the 60-day review period requested by the governor, petitioners were made aware of the recommended timelines.

The discussion underscored the potential legal ramifications should the proposal pass. Councilmember Revenor expressed concern that if the proposal were approved, it could lead to costly litigation for the city, regardless of whether the city chose to enforce the proposal or not. The council ultimately approved the clerk's report, but the implications of the proposed amendment remain a contentious issue as voters prepare to make their decision in the upcoming election.