By Mayor Charles McNeilly
This November, Rockaway Beach voters will have the opportunity to consider an important update to our City Charter. I support Measure 29-187 because it provides a clearer and more modern framework for how our city government operates.
Our charter is our local constitution. It establishes the structure of city government, defines the roles of our elected officials, and provides the basic rules for conducting city business. Over time, some of that language can become outdated or no longer reflect how the city operates. Measure 29-187 is an opportunity to bring that framework up to date.
Among the proposed changes, the measure updates language concerning department heads and city administration and changes the mayor’s term from two years to four years beginning with the 2030 election, the same length of term currently served by City Councilors.
The measure also establishes staggered terms for elected officials so that positions rotate onto the ballot rather than all coming up at the same time. Supporters see this as a way to provide greater continuity from one election to the next while still regularly giving voters the opportunity to choose their representatives.
Another important part of the proposal is clarification. The amendment addresses vacancies and other procedures so that the rules are easier to understand when unusual circumstances arise. Clearer language can help elected officials, city staff, and residents understand what the charter requires without unnecessary uncertainty.
The proposal also expressly recognizes Rockaway Beach’s home-rule authority, reinforcing the principle that our community governs its own local affairs within Oregon law.
Some of these changes may sound technical, but the details of a charter matter. They establish the rules under which our city operates for years to come.
This proposal has gone through a public process involving city staff, legal counsel, the City Council, workshops, and opportunities for community input. Voters now have the final say.
I support Measure 29-187 because these updates provide Rockaway Beach with a clearer, more consistent, and more current framework for local government. A Yes vote would modernize the Charter, clarify authority, improve continuity, support longer-term leadership, and strengthen Rockaway Beach’s ability to govern itself locally.
I encourage everyone to learn about the proposed changes, consider what they mean for our community, and participate in the November election.
Thank you for your time and attention.
