Ballot Issues FAQ’s
Early voting has begun and Village voters will notice two charter amendment items on the ballot. These ballot measures seek to add additional seats to both our Planning Commission and Board of Zoning and Building Appeals. Please see below frequently asked questions to help inform your voting decision.
1. What is a municipal charter? A municipal charter is a legal, binding document created by residents that establishes how a municipality is organized and operates. The Ohio Constitution authorizes municipalities to adopt a charter. A charter provides a municipality with control over its organizational structure, administrative procedures and other matters of local concern. By adopting a charter, residents can tailor the structure and procedures of their municipal government to address the specific needs and preferences of the local community. The Granville Charter was first adopted by voters on May 5, 1964.
2. What is a charter amendment and why is it on the ballot? Over time, the charter may need to be updated to remain relevant and to continue to serve its residents as originally intended. Section 10.10 of the Granville Charter states that in order to amend the charter, the proposed amendment must be submitted to the voters of the municipality and approval of by a majority of those voting on the question of its adoption. An amendment is effective upon passage unless otherwise provided in the amendment or the charter.
3. Why do we need to increase the number of members of both the Planning Commission and Board of Zoning and Building Appeals? Both of these boards are defined by our Charter, Article VIII, and call for five members on each respective board. In order for these boards to be effective and serve their intended purpose, a quorum (3 of 5 members) must be present for each monthly meeting. Recently, we have had trouble achieving quorum on a regular basis. By increasing the membership on each board, we hope to avoid having to cancel any meetings due to lack of a quorum.
4. What's the big deal if we can't get quorum and have to postpone the meeting one month? The Village of Granville is facing developmental pressure and growth at a rate we have never experienced before. Each year brings more zoning applications to the Planning Department than the year before. The Planning Commission and Board of Zoning and Building Appeals are, in turn, also facing full agendas at each regular meeting. If we don't have a quorum, the result is cancellation of scheduled meetings. When meetings are cancelled, residents/architects/developers who are slated to go before the board or commission experience longer lead times to have their applications heard which may lead to additional costs and avoidable delay.
5. Do these amendments increase the size of paid Village staff? No, neither measure does so. The Planning Commission and Board of Zoning and Building Appeals are both filled by unpaid volunteer Village residents. We very much appreciate the selfless service and important work of these volunteers!
6. How do I apply to serve on the Planning Commission or Board of Zoning and Building Appeals? If the voters approve these two ballot issues, we will begin recruiting for new members to serve three-year terms beginning 01/01/2025 on each respective board. You can find the application here. Reach out to village@granville.oh.us with questions.