During a recent city council meeting in Bastrop, significant discussions centered around proposed amendments to the city’s charter, particularly regarding the residency requirements for the city manager and a citizen petition related to marijuana enforcement.

Council members debated the implications of a one-mile residency requirement for the city manager, with some expressing concerns about imposing such a limit on future councils. Mayor Pro Tem Kirkland supported the one-mile rule, arguing it was reasonable and necessary for effective governance. However, Councilmember Fossler raised concerns about adhering strictly to the charter commission's recommendations, suggesting that the council should not selectively apply these guidelines.

The conversation highlighted a broader tension within the council regarding consistency in applying the charter commission's recommendations. Councilmember Meyer emphasized the need for uniform standards, cautioning against cherry-picking which recommendations to follow. In response, Fossler proposed a compromise to adhere to the charter review commission's recommendations, except for specific amendments related to elections and wording changes.

In addition to the residency discussion, the council addressed a citizen petition that seeks to amend the charter concerning marijuana enforcement. The petition, which has been validated by the city secretary, aims to deprioritize the enforcement of marijuana regulations for small amounts. The council is mandated to hold a special election on November 5, 2024, to consider this amendment, as state law restricts charter amendments to every two years.

City officials noted that the urgency of addressing the marijuana petition prompted a comprehensive review of the charter, which had been delayed for over two years. The council plans to consolidate the marijuana amendment with other charter changes for the upcoming election, ensuring that all proposed amendments are considered simultaneously.

No formal actions were taken during the meeting, but the council is expected to reconvene for a special meeting to finalize the proposed charter amendments and the marijuana petition.