Delaware HB 146

This Act to Amend the Charter grants the City Council the power to exercise eminent domain for the purpose of property acquisition, with the exception of land to be used solely for recreational purposes. It also grants the City Council the power to make proclamations to recognize achievements, historical events, special days or months for civic and social purposes, and other similar matters. This Act also clarifies that the Mayor may establish committees as they deem necessary with the consent of the City Council. Duration of elected officials’ terms, previously 2 years, shall be increased to a term of 3 years, beginning with the 2026 election for the Mayor, and beginning in 2027 for incoming Councilmembers. This Act prohibits any person in arrears and owing the City funds for taxes and other applicable fees, shall be ineligible to serve as Mayor or Councilperson. If a sitting Mayor or Councilperson becomes more than two months in arrears to the City, they shall be disqualified from their position and the seat shall be declared vacant.