House Bill 2635 amends the charter of the Town of Stanton by making significant changes to its powers and the role of the town judge. The bill deletes Section 5 in its entirety and replaces it with a new section that outlines a comprehensive list of powers the town may exercise, including the ability to assess and collect taxes, make special assessments for local improvements, issue bonds, and regulate public utilities. Additionally, the new section grants the town the authority to create a design review commission to oversee the exterior appearance of nonresidential properties and multiple-family residential properties, ensuring that the commission's authority does not exceed that of the municipal planning commission.
Furthermore, the bill also deletes Section 18 and substitutes it with a revised section regarding the appointment and responsibilities of the town judge. The new provisions specify that the town judge can continue to practice law and conduct other business, provided it does not conflict with their judicial duties. Eligibility criteria for the town judge are established, including residency and age requirements, and the judge is granted jurisdiction as authorized by the Municipal Court Reform Act of 2004. The bill stipulates that the town judge has the authority to impose fines and manage court proceedings, while also allowing for the appointment of an acting judge in the absence of the town judge. The act will take effect upon a two-thirds vote of the Town of Stanton's legislative body.