Two former mayors are supporting Mayor Kevin Johnson's latest proposal to overhaul the city constitution.
Former Mayors Phil Isenberg and Jimmie Yee are endorsing Johnson's plan and will serve as "honorary co-chairs" of the measure's political campaign, according to a news release sent out by the campaign this morning.
Under the plan, Sacramento would be governed by a "mayor-council" form of government, transitioning from the current system in which the unelected city manager handles most day-to-day operations.
The mayor would have the authority to fire and appoint the city manager, propose the city budget and have veto authority over some City Council decisions.
The City Council would have final say over the budget and who is hired as city manager. The council would also be able to hire and fire the city attorney, treasurer, clerk, auditor and budget analyst, and would have override authority over mayoral vetoes.
The plan is considered a watered-down version of Johnson's previous Strong Mayor Initiative of 2008.
Johnson will ask the City Council on Jan. 17 to place the measure on the June ballot.
Isenberg said in a statement "the new proposal helps promote an independent city council and mayor."
"I appreciate the improvements made based on community feedback and believe strongly that voters now deserve the right to weigh in this June on this important proposal," Yee said.
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