My Statement at Ozark MO City Hall – Why I’m Concerned About the April 7 Charter Commission Vote

Education meeting March 24 → Vote April 7, 2026 (just to start the commission) → Final charter vote in April 2027.

 “Good evening, Mayor and Board of Aldermen. My name is Buddy Huggins, I live right here in Ozark, and I make videos documenting what’s happening in our town.

I’ve been reading the city’s own information about this charter commission. I understand tonight we’re just learning about it, and on April 7 we’re only voting whether to create a 13-person commission to draft something for us to vote on again in 2027.

Here’s my concern, and I’d like an honest answer: Right now our mayor serves a two-year term and has to run for re-election. Under a charter, the commission could write the rules to let the mayor serve four or even six years without facing the voters as often. That would make it easier for the same people to stay in power longer.

So my question is simple: Why should Ozark voters trust that a charter will give us more accountability instead of less? What specific protections for citizens — like stronger recall rules, term limits, or easier petition rights — will be written into this charter before we vote on it in 2027?

Because if the current city government is having trouble running things under state law, handing them a blank check to write their own constitution doesn’t feel like progress — it feels like less oversight.

I’m asking you to convince the people here tonight why this is truly better for everyday Ozark residents, not just for the people already in office. Thank you.”

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City of Ozark, MO - Municipal Government

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We have received several questions from the community asking what a city charter is. A city charter is a form of city government that allows citizens to create their own local constitution and organize city operations to fit their community's needs and priorities.

It is important to note that a city charter is not written by the current city government. Instead, it is drafted by a charter commission made up of residents who are elected by the voters. Once drafted, the charter goes back to the voters for acceptance or rejection.

To help answer questions and provide more information, the city will host a Charter Education Public Meeting on March 24 from 5:30–6:30 p.m. at City Hall. During this meeting, city officials will answer questions from the public. The meeting will also be livestreamed on the city’s Facebook page and YouTube channel.

Paid for by the City of Ozark, Missouri. Mayor Donald Currence. 205 N. 1st Street, Ozark, Missouri, 65721.