To the Honorable Members of the Easley City Council:

We, the undersigned citizens, taxpayers, business owners, and stakeholders of the City of Easley, respectfully request that the Easley City Council repeal Ordinance 2026-18 and restore the authority of the City's elected Chief Administrative Officer regarding the preparation and content of City Council business agendas.

The Chief Administrative Officer is elected directly by the citizens of Easley and serves as an important link between the public, city administration, and elected officials. The authority to participate in and oversee the development of council agendas has historically helped ensure that city business is conducted in a transparent, efficient, and accountable manner.

We believe Ordinance 2026-18:

Reduces transparency in the governmental process.
Limits the ability of an elected official to fulfill responsibilities entrusted by the voters.
Restricts the public's confidence that important issues can be brought forward for discussion and consideration.
Creates unnecessary barriers to communication between city administration, elected officials, businesses, and residents.
Weakens the system of checks and balances that promotes accountable local government.

As citizens and business owners who invest our time, resources, and trust in the future of Easley, we believe decisions affecting the structure and operation of our local government should strengthen—not diminish—public accountability.

Therefore, we respectfully request that the Easley City Council:

Repeal Ordinance 2026-18.
Restore the agenda-related authority previously exercised by the elected Chief Administrative Officer.
Engage in an open public discussion regarding any future changes to the powers and responsibilities of elected city officials.

We submit this petition in the spirit of constructive government, transparency, and the continued success of the City of Easley.

Respectfully Submitted