The proposed amendments to the North Dakota Century Code focus on enhancing local governance for counties and cities, particularly regarding home rule charters and election laws. A key change is the insertion of language that states any ordinance enacted by a county or city related to elections under a home rule charter that conflicts with state law is void. The amendments also clarify that while the charter and ordinances can supersede conflicting state laws, this does not apply to election matters. Additionally, the bill allows counties and cities to levy and collect various taxes and fees, including infrastructure fees and special assessments, while ensuring compliance with state property taxation laws.

The bill further amends Section 40-49-07, which governs the election and qualifications of members of the board of park commissioners. It specifies that board members must be qualified electors of the city and elected by the park district's qualified electors, with the first board being elected during a regular city election or a special election. Newly elected members must take an oath by July 1 following their election. The bill also allows the board of park commissioners to collaborate with the city governing body on election logistics and adopt the same signature threshold for nominating petitions as set for city candidates, aiming to streamline the election process and ensure consistency in qualifications and procedures.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 11-09.1-04, 40-05.1-05
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Kasper: 11-09.1-04, 11-09.1-05, 40-05.1-05, 40-05.1-06
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 11-09.1-04, 11-09.1-05, 40-05.1-05, 40-05.1-06
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Senator Roers: 11-09.1-04, 11-09.1-05, 40-05.1-05, 40-05.1-06, 40-49-07