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Dear Chapel Hill Community,
The Town Council has scheduled a public hearing on April 29 to consider two potential changes to the Town Charter. These proposals relate to how Chapel Hill is governed and are being brought forward to support an open discussion about effectiveness, responsiveness, and accountability.
These ideas are not new. They were discussed prior to the COVID-19 pandemic but set aside as the Town focused on more immediate challenges. Revisiting them now creates an opportunity for a thoughtful, community-wide conversation.
Proposal 1: Adjust the Size of the Town Council (from 8 members to 6)
Background:
Across our region and in similar sized communities, councils of five to six members are common. Towns such as Apex (~60,000 residents) and Holly Springs (~40,000) each operate with five council members plus a mayor. In larger cities, council sizes are often comparable; for example, Durham and Asheville each have six council members plus a mayor. Chapel Hill’s current structure of eight council members is on the higher end.
Questions for community consideration:
- How might a smaller council affect the pace of decision-making and progress on key priorities?
- How might a reduction in size influence diversity and representation?
- What impact could this change have on Town resources, including staff time and the cost of governance?
Proposal 2: Extend the Mayor's Term (from 2 years to 4)
Background:
Across North Carolina, many municipalities—including nearby communities such as Apex and Holly Springs, as well as larger cities like Asheville, Greensboro and Durham—use four-year mayoral terms. These longer terms are often aligned with budgeting cycles, capital planning, and regional initiatives.
Questions for community consideration:
- How might a longer term influence continuity in leadership and the ability to carry initiatives across multiple years?
- Could a longer term affect how the Town responds to emerging challenges or changing priorities?
- How might the balance between governing and campaigning shift over a longer term?
Public Hearing Details
Your perspective is important in helping shape a Town Charter that reflects the community’s values and priorities, and your participation is encouraged.
The public hearing will take place on Wednesday, April 29, in the Council Chamber at Town Hall, beginning at 6:00 p.m. No decision will be made that evening.
If you wish to speak, please sign up with the Town Clerk. You may also share your thoughts and questions by email at mayorandcouncil@chapelhillnc.gov.
With warm regards,
Mayor Jess
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