Summarize Chattanooga Population as of the July, 2011 census update: 170,136.17) Home rule charter city, authorizes initiative for ordinances.

Ordinances: Signature requirement is 25% of the votes cast for all the candidates for mayor at the last preceding general municipal election. Before a petition may be circulated, at least one registered voter of the city shall file the proposed petition with the county election commission for pre-approval (TCA 2- 5-151). Petition content requirements are in Chattanooga Charter, Sec. 11.24 and 3.18. Completed petitions must be filed within 75 days of pre-approval, and at least 60 days prior to a regular election to appear on that ballot (TCA 2-5-151). After certification, council has 6 weeks to adopt or submit at special election to be held as soon as may be done conformably to law, unless a general municipal election is fixed to be held within 90 days. Majority vote passes the measure

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As of the July 2011 census update, Chattanooga had a population of approximately 170,136. The city operates under a home rule charter that allows for citizens to initiate ordinances. To propose an ordinance, supporters must gather signatures from 25% of the voters who participated in the most recent mayoral election. Before circulating a petition, a registered voter must first file it with the county election commission for pre-approval. The petition must meet certain content requirements outlined in the Chattanooga Charter and must be submitted within 75 days of pre-approval, at least 60 days before a regular election to be included on the ballot. Once a petition is certified, the city council has six weeks to either adopt the measure or place it on the ballot for a special election, unless a general municipal election is scheduled within 90 days. A majority vote is required for the proposed measure to pass.