Chapter XIV.
FRANCHISE AND PUBLIC UTILITIES

Section 1.  Approval of Franchises

No franchise shall be granted, extended, or renewed except by majority vote of the Council and approval by the electors of the City. The Council may submit the question of granting extension or renewal to the electors of the City at any primary or general election or at a special election called for that purpose pursuant to the provisions for special elections in this Charter. In the event of special election, the Council shall first estimate the costs of the special election which sum shall be deposited by the applicants with the City Clerk prior to the special election.

Section 2.  Establishment of Municipally –Owned and Operated Utilities

The City has the power to own and operate any public utility, to construct and install all facilities that are reasonably needed, and to lease or purchase any existing utility properties used or useful to public service. The City may also furnish service to adjacent and nearby territories which may be conveniently and economically served by the municipally-owned and operated utility, subject to the limitations of state law; provide by ordinance for the establishment of such utility and provide for its regulation and control and the fixing of rates to be charged; and, by ordinance, provide for the extension, enlargement, or improvement of existing utilities, and provide reasonable reserves for such purposes.