Atherton residents have an important opportunity tonight to learn, ask questions, and shape the future of local governance.
The Town of Atherton is hosting its Charter City Exploration Workshop tonight at 6:00 PM in the Town Center Council Chambers. This community session kicks off a months‑long public engagement process as the Town studies whether adopting a local charter could offer greater flexibility and local control over governance, elections, contracting, and other municipal affairs.
What to Expect Tonight
Residents will receive a clear, accessible overview of:
- How Atherton currently operates as a General Law City
- What it could mean to become a Charter City
- What a charter can and cannot change
- The draft charter’s key features, including maintaining the Council‑Manager form of government and preserving all existing ordinances
- The proposed timeline leading to a potential November 2026 ballot measure
Town staff will also walk through common misconceptions, such as whether a charter affects zoning (it doesn’t), imposes new taxes (it doesn’t), or overrides state housing laws (it cannot). No decision has been made to place a charter on the ballot. Tonight’s workshop is purely informational and designed to gather community input before the City Council considers next steps.
Event Details
Location: Town Center – Council Chambers - 80 Fair Oaks Lane, Atherton, CA 94027
Time: 6:00 PM - 1/29/2026 [Tonight]
Format: Presentation + Q&A
Virtual Link: https://atherton.news/Charter-City-Workshop-Virtual-Link
More Info: https://atherton.news/Charter-City
A charter can only be adopted by Atherton voters—so understanding the facts starts here. Join us tonight and be part of the conversation shaping Atherton’s future.