The proposed annexation of some of the Riverside Country Club and nearby neighborhoods is headed to the Bozeman City Commission after gaining support from the Community Development advisory board this
AJ Media Editorial Board
So much for expanding the Lubbock City Council.
The idea, which recently received some visibility but little traction, was sidelined by the voices of concerned citizens, who showed up at a public meeting and unanimously argued against the proposal, saying it would represent a significant step backward for the city.
Adding two at-large seats to the council was on shaky ground from its inception. A 1983 court decision is clear that the city council is to comprise six members with each elected from respective areas of the city. The U.S. District Court ruling in Jones v. The City of Lubbock not only assures diversity on the council but also prevents the city from changing its makeup.
After a nearly two-hour public hearing where citizens voice nothing but opposition, the city s charter review committee made it clear that adding two at-large council seats and extending the mayor s term length will not be considered moving forward.
James Arnold, chairman of the committee, said after the public hearing on Tuesday that these topics are off the table. Arnold said the 1983 U.S. District Court ruling for Jones v. The City of Lubbock, the lawsuit aimed at enhancing diversity on the Lubbock City Council, prevents the city from making these types of changes.
The committee quashed any rumor that it would be recommending these changes to the Lubbock City Council, who will ultimately have the final say.