New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams will introduce legislation on Wednesday, October 23rd to establish a new Charter Revision Committee (CRC). The City Council stated that the primary task of the new committee is to “improve transparency in city government and restore public confidence in local democracy”.
Adams stated, “The Charter Revision Committee provides a unique opportunity to brainstorm ideas, engage New Yorkers, and propose improvements to city government that are more responsive to the needs of our communities.”
After Mayor Eric Adams announced the formation of the Charter Revision Committee on May 21st, a committee of 13 individuals appointed by him rushed to put forth five controversial proposals within just 2 months, as part of this year’s presidential election ballot. However, Adams’s proposal aims to extend the preparation period for submitting referendum proposals by the new committee to at least 8 months, providing more preparation time for referendum proposals tied to the November 2025 mayoral election, and a 20-month preparation period for referendum proposals tied to the 2026 general elections.
Furthermore, Adams’s proposed new Charter Revision Committee will prohibit registered lobbyists from serving as committee members, opting instead for representatives elected by the public. The focus will be on public participation, review, and transparency. This is a departure from the composition of the 13-person committee appointed by Mayor Adams, where the committee’s chair, Carlo Scissura, holds a leadership role in the registered lobbying group “New York Building Congress”.
The responsibility of the Charter Revision Committee is essential in amending the New York City Charter, requiring a comprehensive review of the charter and the development of proposals to enhance government operations.
The City Council stated that the newly proposed committee by Adams will submit referendum proposals before the 2025 mayoral election. The committee will consist of 17 members, with 9 appointed by the City Council Speaker, and the rest appointed by the Mayor, Public Advocate, City Comptroller, and elected officials representing Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and Queens.
The new version of the Charter Revision Committee will seek widespread input from New Yorkers and community leaders, encouraging public participation.
In contrast, Adams’s version of the Charter Revision Committee comprises members solely appointed by the Mayor, and within less than 2 days of its formation, it approved ballot proposals numbered 2 to 6 for voter consideration on November 5th without public input.
Adams emphasized that the new Charter Revision Committee should “prioritize strengthening New York City over political games.” She stated that the legislative goal is to establish a new Charter Revision Committee, amend the New York City Charter through a transparent review process, and thoughtful proposals.