Now Accepting Applications - Charter Advisory Committee

On February 17, 2026, the Fremont City Council initiated the process for proposing a new City Charter to be completed in time to be placed on the ballot for consideration by Fremont voters in November 2026. To achieve this outcome, City Council is moving forward with a City Council-proposed Charter, with structured input provided by a 7 member, Mayor-appointed Charter Advisory Committee.

Beginning today, March 4, 2026, Fremont's Mayor is accepting applications from individuals wishing to participate on the Charter Advisory Committee. During a Special City Council meeting on March 20, 2026, seven committee members will be appointed by the Mayor and ratified by the City Council. In compliance with the Brown Act, the Committee will meet during noticed public meetings to complete its work and provide recommendations to the City Council.

Prior to making recommendations for a proposed Charter, the Committee will review the Charter formation process, the City's existing government structure and operations and research best practices on key issues and potential topics that may be addressed by a Charter. The City Council has identified several priorities including:

• Governance models
• Hiring authority
• Meeting structures
• Principles of accountability, transparency, and non-interference
• Term limits options
• Council compensation considerations
• City Council staffing options

It is anticipated that some or all of the recommendations by the Committee may require legal and fiscal analysis. Upon finalizing its recommendations, the City Attorney will oversee the drafting of the proposed Charter document, which will be presented to City Council for consideration at a minimum of two public hearings and a third meeting for a final vote of the Council prior to it being placed on the ballot by August 7, 2026.

If you are interested in serving on the Committee, please apply by March 17, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. View the application.