Macon-Bibb Commission approves charter change proposal to equalize term limits

The Macon-Bibb County Commission voted 6-3 on Tuesday to send a proposal to the local legislative delegation, seeking a change to the county charter that would make term limits equal for all elected officials.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Macon-Bibb County Commission voted 6-3 on Tuesday to send a proposal to the local legislative delegation, seeking a change to the county charter that would make term limits equal for all elected officials.

Right now, the charter limits the mayor to two four-year terms, while commissioners can serve up to three four-year terms. The proposed amendment would allow mayors to run for a third term.

Some residents spoke against the resolution, raising concerns about the potential for future mayors to serve extended terms. Commissioners Donice Bryant and Stanley Stewart both spoke about their opposition to the proposal while clarifying it was not directed at Mayor Lester Miller, who recently began his second term.

“I want to go on record saying this is a bad idea for the city of Macon and Macon-Bibb,” Stewart said. “I ask you strong heartedly to vote no.” He also mentioned he supported the idea of reducing commissioners’ term limits to two terms to match the mayor’s current limit.

Commissioner Paul Bronson supported the current charter structure as well, saying it allows for checks and balances. “So when we start talking about a 2 for 3 and being the mayor having two terms and the commissioners having three terms, that allows that checks and balances to happen.”

Addressing concerns about extended terms, Miller reminded residents that voters would still have the power to vote a mayor out if they chose.

The resolution now moves to the local legislative delegation for further consideration.