AUTUMN OWENS/WD PHOTO
Edmonds and Associates was hired after unanimous approval of the Aledo city council last week to guide the city through the home-rule charter process.
Home rule was established by Texas voters in 1912, enabling legislation passed in 1913, and allows for more direct governing of cities by their residents, secures adequate powers so municipalities can meet increased demands for services, avoids interference from the state Legislature and allows cities to act without affirmative action of the legislature.
Requirements of becoming a home-rule city includes establishing a population of 5,000, which Aledo has done, and the creation of a charter commission.