Arizona Constitution Article 13 - MUNICIPAL CORPORATIONS
Arizona Constitution – Article 13: Municipal Corporations
📘 Overview:
Article 13 of the Arizona Constitution governs municipal corporations, which means the cities and towns within Arizona. It sets the framework for how municipalities are created, governed, and their powers.
🔑 Key Provisions:
Incorporation of Municipalities:
The constitution allows communities to incorporate as cities or towns under laws established by the state legislature.
Municipalities gain legal status and powers once incorporated.
Home Rule:
Cities with a population over a certain threshold (usually 3,500 residents) have home rule powers.
Home rule means these municipalities can adopt their own charters and govern themselves, except where limited by state law.
Powers of Municipalities:
Municipalities can enact ordinances, levy taxes, issue bonds, and provide local services.
They have the authority to manage local affairs like police, fire protection, zoning, streets, sanitation, and utilities.
Limitations:
Municipal powers cannot conflict with state laws or the state constitution.
The legislature retains the authority to alter or repeal municipal charters, except for home rule cities.
Elections and Officials:
Municipal officers are elected by residents.
The constitution outlines how municipal elections should be conducted, including terms and qualifications of officials.
🎯 Purpose:
Article 13 ensures that Arizona’s cities and towns have the authority to govern local matters effectively, balancing local autonomy with state oversight.
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