After discussion at Monday’s City Council meeting, two additional amendments will be added totaling 50 amendments expected to be considered during a May Charter amendment election.  

Amendments expected to be on the ballot include technical adjustments as well as new provisions related to governance and transparency. Examples include:   

  • Requiring candidates in Places 1-4 to reside in their district for at least one year prior to the date of election and throughout their term 
  • Establishing a City Council-adopted Code of Ethics, to be reviewed every two years 
  • Increasing City Council compensation to $150 per meeting through January 2030 and increasing to $200 per meeting after that 
  • Including a provision that would require sitting city council members to resign from their current position to run for elected offices outside of city council positions 
  • Adding a Continuity of Government provision to ensure operations during emergencies   

Proposed amendments to Richardson’s Charter were originally finalized by the Council last August, after the Charter Review Commission presented amendments for consideration in June, in advance of a possible November 2025 election. The Council chose to consider a Charter Amendment Election for May 2026 when a new bond program might also be on the ballot, to be more fiscally responsible and avoid voter fatigue.  

The Council is expected to order the 2026 Charter Amendment Election Feb. 9.  

Jan. 12 City Council presentation/discussion: Video