While you explore our fresh design and features, you can still access the old website for reference.
The charter is our city's constitution and can only be changed by a vote of Columbus' citizens. The charter establishes the branches of Columbus city government - Council, Mayor, Auditor, and Attorney - and also defines the duties and roles of various cabinet officials and city staff. Columbus voters approved our first city charter in 1914, and since that time it has been amended over 60 times to respond to local issues, reflect changing state laws, and strengthen our city. Most recently, the 2022 Charter Review Commission advanced three recommendations that reformed the initiative process, civil service, and city modernization.
Charter of the City of Columbus, OH