Kingston Charter Revision

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Charter Revision in Kingston

Over the course of 2026 and 2027, the city of Kingston will review its municipal charter. First adopted in 1896, Kingston’s charter was last reviewed in 1994. Like a constitution, the charter establishes the structure of local government, including how leaders are chosen, how laws are written, and how residents participate in civic life. As a result, this revision is a rare opportunity to shape local government for years to come.

On this page, you can learn more about what a charter is, the timeline for revision, and how you can participate in this process.

What is a Charter?

A charter is the rulebook that explains how a city will be governed. It determines, for example, whether the city will be administered by an elected mayor or an appointed city manager, how residents are represented through the legislature, and the relationship between these different elected officials. Watch the following video to learn more:

This means that the charter is different from typical municipal laws known in Kingston as Local Laws. Whereas these laws change year-to-year, charters are typically reviewed every few years at most. Nonetheless, the structure of the charter determines how these local laws are passed which in turn have an important impact on residents.

How is the charter being reviewed?

Local Law 6 of 2025 established the Kingston Charter Review Commission and a timeline for its work. The Commission will be composed of 18 members. Of these, 3 will be appointed by the mayor, 3 will be appointed by the common council, and 12 will be drawn from the public at random. The task of the Commission is to review the city’s charter and propose changes to it. Any changes to the charter would be submitted to Kingston voters during the general election in November 2027.

The city of Kingston has partnered with the National Civic League to facilitate the work of the Charter Review Commission, including the selection of its 12 public members and 2 alternate members, who will meet monthly over the next year to discuss possible changes. The National Civic League will use a specialized civic lottery to select these members. This process will ensure that Kingston’s population is well reflected in the Commission.

How can I share my thoughts?

All Kingston voters will have the opportunity to vote on any changes proposed by the Charter Review Commission. If you are interested in contributing to the work of the Commission, there will be multiple ways to do so, including by serving on the Commission as a public member. If you'd like to sign up for a chance to join the Commission, please click below to sign up by August 17, 2026.

Civic Lottery Sign-Up: https://activote.app/e/NCL-KingstonCharter

The commission is expected to meet approximately monthly over one year. Residents of all backgrounds and perspectives are encouraged to apply, including youth over the age of 18. No prior experience or specialized knowledge is required.

The link above will also direct you to a community survey. The results of this survey will be used to guide the work of the Commission. There will be other opportunities to participate, even if you are not chosen in the civic lottery. This will include a public forum to take place in Fall of 2026. Stay tuned to receive additional updates!