Hudson, Ohio –
Hudson residents will decide on eight proposed charter amendments when they head to the polls November 4, after City Council approved placing the measures on the ballot following recommendations from the Charter Review Commission.
The commission, which convenes every five years to examine Hudson’s local constitution, held 11 meetings from January through June and accepted public input before recommending the changes. The amendments range from administrative updates to significant structural reforms including term limits and board consolidations.
Administrative Changes (Issue 30) The most comprehensive amendment would modernize language throughout the charter, changing “voters” to “electors” and eliminating requirements for newspaper notices in favor of website postings. The measure also clarifies purchasing requirements and designates the Clerk of Council as the recipient of various petitions.
Term Limits for Elected Officials (Issue 31)
This amendment would establish a 12-year limit or three full four-year terms for all elected city officials, including the mayor and council members. The cumulative limit would apply regardless of which elected office a person holds.
Board and Commission Term Limits (Issue 32) Similar restrictions would apply to appointed positions on city boards and commissions, setting a 12-year or three full four-year term limit while removing current loopholes. The Planning and Architectural Appeals Board would be limited to two full six-year terms.
Recall Process Changes (Issue 33) The threshold for initiating recall petitions would remain at 25 percent, but the measurement would change from gubernatorial election turnout to municipal election turnout, potentially making recalls easier to initiate.
Council Salary Adjustment (Issue 34) Council member compensation would shift from the current $80 per meeting structure to a monthly salary tied to the state minimum required for full retirement credit eligibility.
Military and Veterans Commission (Issue 35) This would formally establish the existing Military and Veterans Commission in the charter with five to seven members and standard operational requirements.
Board Consolidation (Issue 36) The most significant structural change would eliminate the Park Board, Cemetery Board and Tree Commission, replacing them with a single Park and Natural Resource Board. The new board would have seven to 11 members instead of the current 22 to 28 across the four existing bodies. The change would take effect January 1, 2027.
Tax Levy Accountability (Issue 37) The final amendment would require entities receiving tax levy funds to have governing bodies selected by Hudson voters through direct election, council appointment, or other methods approved by six council members.
All eight issues will appear as Issues 30 through 37 on the November ballot. Voters can find complete language and additional information through the Summit County Board of Elections.
Source: Proposed Charter Amendments 2025 | Hudson, OH – Official Website
September Programs and Deadlines
The Residential Driveway Plowing Program is now open for applications through Friday, September 26. Residents 65 and older or disabled individuals without an able-bodied individual living in the home receiving the Homestead Exemption are eligible to participate. Apply Now.
Summer is ending as the splash pad approaches the end of its season. The last day to use the splash pad this year is Friday, September 19. Learn more.
It’s not too late to join the Hudson Cemetery Board this Saturday, September 20, for a scavenger hunt and walking tour through the historic Old Hudson Township Burying Grounds. Time slots are filling fast between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Sign up here.
The deadline is approaching to take the League of American Bicyclists’ survey, which ends October 5. As part of the City’s Bicycle-Friendly Community renewal, the information will help the League and the City better understand current bicycling conditions and potential areas for improvement. Take the survey.
Rain barrels help conserve water and can save money on landscaping costs. Join the City for the Rain Barrel Workshop on the Clocktower Green on Monday, October 6 to make your own. The workshop begins at 6 p.m. Register now.
Weekend Events Kick off your weekend with Barre in the Park on Saturday, September 20 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on the First & Main Green for an outdoor workout for all fitness levels.
On Sunday, September 21 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., head to the Clocktower and Gazebo Greens for the Heart & Home Handmade Marketplace, featuring local artisans, live music, food trucks, and fall finds.
The Board of Zoning and Building Appeals will hold a public hearing Thursday, September 18 at 7:30 p.m. at Town Hall regarding a variance request for a five-foot reduction from the required minimum side yard setback to construct a pavilion with a stamped patio and fireplace on W Streetsboro Street. More info here.
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