§ 28-3. To initiate special assessment projects.

(a)

Proceedings for the making of public improvements within the city may be commenced by resolution of the council, on its own initiative or by an initiatory petition signed by property owners whose aggregate property in the special assessment district was assessed for more than fifty (50) percent of the total assessed value of the privately owned real property located therein, in accordance with the last preceding general assessment roll; provided, however, that in the case of special assessments for paving or similar improvements which are normally assessed on a frontage basis against abutting property, such petitions shall be signed by the owners of more than fifty (50) percent of the frontage of property to be assessed.

(b)

Such petitions shall contain in addition to the signatures of the owners, a brief description of the property owned by the respective signers thereof.

(c)

Such petitions shall be verified by the affidavit of one (1) or more of the owners or by some person or persons with knowledge that the signers are such owners and that such signatures are genuine.

(d)

Petitions shall be addressed to the council and filed with the city clerk. Petitions shall in no event be mandatory upon the council.

(e)

All petitions shall be circulated and signed on blank forms furnished by the city.

(f)

All petitions shall be referred by the city clerk to the city manager. The city manager shall check the petitions to determine whether they conform to the foregoing requirements and shall report his or her findings to the council.

(Code 1977, § 1.223)