Both constitutions recognized the fundamental integrity of counties, townships, cities, and villages in Michigan.
Local governments could no longer be created, abolished, or consolidated without the consent of the electors who reside within the affected territory.
Prior to this time, local governments had been created by a special act of the legislature which did not require any consent from those living within the affected territory.
The charters that had been previously granted by the legislature continued in force until such time as an affected city took this action.
A special commission is elected to conduct the work of writing a new charter and submitting it to the voters for approval.