"Budget Enthusiast"
(A name given to me by the City Controller since I regularly attend the Council Meetings and 14 Budget Hearings)

Ordinances vs Resolutions

There is a difference and you need to be aware which one the Council is using on an issue.

Ordinance:
"A piece of legislation enacted by a municipal authority."  An ordinance is a local law. Cities pass ordinances making it illegal to do a particular activity, like setting off fireworks after a certain time period. It often includes a fine of some kind.
It is not an option, it's a law.

Resolution:
"The act of finding an answer or solution to a conflict, problem." When you hear the Council read off a Resolution stating they dislike the Homeless Situation or Human Trafficking, those are "Pronouncements" they don't like something or are suggesting the Mayor do something differently. It changes absolutely nothing because it is not written into the Municipal Code as an Ordinance.

Resolutions to Honor Someone:
This is a wonderful use of a Resolution. It says to the community you have done something wonderful and we want to recognize you for your accomplishments. By all means, we need to continue this type of Resolution.
​#Ordinances #Resolutions
As an IT Professional I computerized over 20 Law Offices. As part of that process I read a lot of Legal Ease. It's not always clear to someone. 

Becoming more interested in making real change in the City of South Bend, I looked into changing some of the Ordinances to better serve our community.​ I think it's important for Citizens to read and give real input on changing the laws they live by on a daily basis.

Here's where you an see the City of  South Bend Municipal Code:
NOTE: If this link does not work for you, you may need to activate it through the City Website by going to:
https://southbendin.gov/doing-business/ and then click on the "Municipal Code" link there. Some legal reporting services make you go through a designated portal. Also, these view better on a full size computer screen.
So how can the average person with no law degree approach the City or County about making changes? I worked with Mr. Ed Edmonds of the Notre Dame Library and designed this website for YOU, the interested citizen. 
It is my goal as an Advocate to involve YOU in the process. 

If these are your priorities, I need your VOTE and Donations!
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My campaign is a grassroots one.  Donations are appreciated and helpful.
NOTE: My donation app is by ActBlue. Your receipts will come from them.