For more information regarding City Resolutions and Ordinances, please submit a Public Information Request to the Records Officer.
RESOLUTIONS
Resolutions are typically used when deciding to surplus public property, directing the agency executive to take certain designated action, adopting council or board rules of procedure, or adopting personnel policies. Similarly, an “order” is sometimes used when directing that a specific action be taken, and once complied with, an order no longer has effect.
A resolution is a formal expression of opinion, will, or intent from an official body that often addresses a matter of special or temporary nature. In most instances, resolutions go into effect immediately, generally need not be published, and can be adopted by a majority of the governing body, assuming there is a quorum at the meeting during which the resolution is being considered.
ORDINANCES
An ordinance is local law, enacted by the proper authorities, prescribing general, uniform, and permanent rules of conduct relating to the corporate affairs of the municipality.
Ordinances are similar in nature to statutes enacted by the legislature and passed according to procedures required by state law or charter (such as notice, public hearing, required number of votes, and publication). They can be used to fix legal rights and duties, to regulate activities, or to prohibit criminal acts. Ordinances are generally considered permanent and can only be amended by enacting a new ordinance.
Typically, ordinances cannot go into effect immediately and some may be subject to referendum. Changes to a jurisdiction’s criminal code, zoning code, or development regulations are common legislative acts accomplished through ordinances.