Chapter 23 – Navigating Ohio’s Governing Documents
23.6 Home Rule Charters
What are Home Rule Charters?
Not every local government in Ohio operates under a home rule charter. In fact, only those municipalities that have chosen to adopt one can enjoy the flexibility and autonomy that a home rule charter provides. As discussed earlier in the textbook, home rule charters allow local governments to manage their own affairs, provided their actions do not conflict with state laws. These charters serve as the local equivalent of a constitution, outlining the structure, powers, and functions of a city’s government. However, for those local governments without a home rule charter, the Ohio Revised Code dictates how they must operate, leaving them with less flexibility to tailor their governance to local needs.
Variations and Examples
One of the most significant aspects of home rule charters is that they can vary widely from one municipality to another. This variation allows each community to structure its government in a way that best meets its unique needs. For example, a city with a home rule charter might opt for a strong mayor system, where the mayor has significant executive power, while another might prefer a council-manager system, where a professional city manager oversees daily operations. These differences can impact everything from how local laws are created to how public services are delivered. For example, Cleveland’s home rule charter allows for a mayor-council form of government, whereas Mentor’s charter establishes a city manager-council system.
Empowerment through Local Governance
Understanding your community’s home rule charter is a powerful tool for civic engagement. By becoming familiar with the charter, you can better understand how decisions are made in your city or town, who holds power, and how you can influence local policies. This knowledge enables you to:
- Engage Effectively with Local Government – Knowing the structure of your local government helps you navigate the system more effectively. For example, if you want to propose a new ordinance or challenge an existing one, understanding the process outlined in your home rule charter can guide you on the best way to proceed.
- Advocate for Change – If you believe certain aspects of your local government need to change, the charter shows you the steps required to make that happen. Whether it’s advocating for a new form of government or pushing for changes in how local officials are elected, understanding the charter is the first step in advocating for reform.
- Participate in Local Elections – Home rule charters often outline the rules for local elections, including who is eligible to run for office, how elections are conducted, and what powers elected officials will have. By understanding these rules, you can make informed decisions when voting and even consider running for local office yourself.
By familiarizing yourself with your community’s home rule charter, you empower yourself to be an active participant in local governance. This knowledge gives you the tools to influence policies, engage with your local government, and help shape the future of your community.
