Understanding City Referred Ballot Question 2C

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In ballot issue 2C of the Fort Collins City Ballot, it states that the issue of how the questions within the ballot are worded. Issue 2C addresses the use of language that is used in the ballot, and if wanting to “modernize” the language to update it to a more current language. This issue is referring to the words “Shall” will be changed to “will”, “May” and “Must”. This so the wording within the issues will be easier to understand. This issue also will be changing the words to be  more inclusive, by using “he” and “she”. Then the last thing that this issue covers is by dividing it into sections to make it easier to read and understand.

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A “Yes” vote on Ballot Issue 2C means you support updating and modernizing the language of the City Charter. This would make the document clearer, more inclusive, and easier to navigate without changing any of the city’s actual rules or operations. Voting “Yes” means improving accessibility and understanding for all community members.

What does it mean if you vote no on this ballet issue? If the majority votes not on ballot issue 2C then that means that the wording will stay the same and no changes will be made. Therefore, the words “shall” and similar words that are used may not be changed in the near future.

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Ballot Question 2C focuses on improving how the Fort Collins City Charter is written, not how the city functions. This proposal reflects how language plays a big role in communication and government accessibility. The modernization helps citizens understand the charter more easily and ensures that it represents the city’s values of inclusivity and clarity.

It’s also a reminder that even small updates, like changing a single word, can make a large difference in how people interpret legal information. For students and young voters, this issue shows the importance of paying attention to wording and accessibility in government materials, because clear communication helps everyone participate more confidently in local democracy. In short, 2C asks Fort Collins voters whether to modernize and update the City Charter by improving its language and organization without changing how the city operates. This in no way will be changing the purpose or content of this bill and those going forward. It is simply to provide further clarification when deciding to vote yes or no.

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Dictionary:

Ballot: A form used to cast votes in an election or issue.

Charter: A city’s main legal document that outlines its organization and powers.

Modernize: To update something to fit current times or standards.

Inclusive: Making sure all included people are fairly represented and included.

Amendment: A change or addition made to a law or document.

Legislation: Laws or legal rules created by a government.

Civic engagement: Being active and involved in public or community affairs.

Democracy: A system of government where the people have the power to make decisions, usually by voting for their leaders or on issues.

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Works Cited

Dictionary.com | Meanings & Definitions of English Words, https://www.dictionary.com/. Accessed 30 October 2025.

“What's on the Ballot? - City of Fort Collins.” FCGov.com, https://www.fcgov.com/elections/on-the-ballot. Accessed 30 October 2025.