A. The initiative and referendum process provides an important method for citizens of Berkeley to propose legislation and review council enacted legislation.

B. The initiative and referendum provisions of the California Election Code specify certain requirements as to form that each petition must meet prior to acceptance of the petition by the City Clerk.

C. The California Election Code provisions are complex and difficult to interpret.

D. In order to facilitate the circulation of citizen initiatives and referenda, it is necessary for the City Clerk to provide some guidance to citizens regarding the petition requirements of the California Election Code.

E. City Charter Section 92(10) authorizes the council to enact by ordinance appropriate legislation necessary to implement Charter Section 92 regarding initiatives; Charter Section 95 authorizes the council to enact appropriate legislation to implement Article XIV of the Charter regarding referendum and Charter Section 118 authorizes the council to enact legislation which may be necessary and proper to carry out any of the provisions of the Charter.

F. Enactment of legislation providing for review of initiative or referendum petitions by the City Clerk is necessary and proper for the reasons set forth above. (Ord. 5729-NS § 1, 1986)