The Village of Edwardsburg

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The Village of Edwardsburg. One square mile. A charter-based government. Population of just over 1300 residents.
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Charter Revision

The Village Council is looking into a general revision of the Charter of the Village of Edwardsburg. With the passing of Resolution 25-03, village electors will be able to adopt or reject the process of revising the Charter. The resolution will be placed on ballots in the November election.

A village charter is a foundational legal document, similar to a local constitution, that outlines the structure, powers, and procedures of a village government. It creates safeguards to protect against misuse of authority and defines how the village operates and is governed, including the roles of elected officials. It also provides opportunities where citizens can participate. 

The charter was originally written in 1912, based on the laws of 1910. It was last revised in 1986. The main purpose of revising the charter is to ensure it reflects the current needs of the community by addressing potential new challenges, opportunities, and updating outdated provisions, as charter provisions can become outdated or irrelevant. Revision allows for the removal of obsolete language and the adaptation to changing needs. 

If village electors vote to adopt the revision process, a Charter Commission of 5 electors who are freeholders (registered voters who own village property) and have residence of at least 2 years in the village will be elected. They will be sworn in within 10 days after the election, will choose their Clerk and Chairman, and will work to frame a charter within 60 days.

After a proposed charter is completed, it will be presented to the Governor of the State. If the Governor approves the revision, it will be published at least 2 weeks prior to election, where electors will have a final vote.