(a) By-laws. Each neighborhood council seeking official certification or recognition from the City shall submit an organization plan and by-laws to the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment showing, at a minimum:
(1) the method by which their officers are chosen;
(2) neighborhood council membership will be open to everyone who lives, works or owns property in the area (stakeholders);
(3) assurances that the members of the neighborhood council will reflect the diverse interests within their area;
(4) a system through which the neighborhood council will communicate with stakeholders on a regular basis;
(5) a system for financial accountability of its funds; and
(6) guarantees that all meetings will be open and public, and permit, to the extent feasible, every stakeholder to participate in the conduct of business, deliberation and decision-making.
(b) Petitioning for Certification and Approval. Neighborhood councils may petition for certification or recognition in accordance with rules and procedures set forth in the Plan.