The city may acquire real, personal, or mixed property for any
public purpose by purchase, gift, bequest, devise, lease, or otherwise
and may sell, lease or otherwise dispose of any property belonging
to the city. All city property, funds, and franchises of every kind
belonging to or in the possession of the city (by whatever prior name
known) at the time this charter becomes effective are vested in the
city, subject to the terms and conditions thereof. Any single acquisition
exceeding one-half of one percent of the then current assessable base
of the city must first receive approval in a city referendum on the
issue.
The city may condemn property of any kind, or interest therein
or franchise connected therewith, in fee or as an easement, within
the corporate limits of the city, for any public purpose. Any activity,
project, or improvement authorized by the provisions of this charter
or any other State law applicable to the city is a public purpose.
The manner of procedure in case of any condemnation proceeding shall
be that established in Title 12 of the Real Property Article of the
Code.
The city may acquire, obtain by lease or rent, purchase, construct,
operate, and maintain all buildings and structures it deems necessary
for the operation of the city government.
The city may do whatever may be necessary to protect city property
and to keep all city property in good condition.