Informal Opinion No.

Alvaro A.J. Salinero, Esq. Assistant Corporation Counsel, Schenectady

You have informed us that under the city charter the city council or the mayor has power to conduct investigations of any matter relating to the affairs of the city and may compel testimony and the production of documents. You have asked whether and through what means you can amend the charter to provide that the mayor or any councilman has power to conduct investigations, and whether such action is subject to mandatory referendum under the Municipal Home Rule Law.

Cities are authorized to adopt local laws, consistent with…