Who can independently call for a referendum according to the governing body initiative?

The governing body has the authority to independently call for a referendum, as it represents the official decision-making group within a municipality. The governing body typically consists of elected officials, such as the mayor and city council, who are empowered to make critical decisions on behalf of their constituents. When they determine that a specific issue warrants direct voter input, they can initiate a referendum to gauge public opinion or approval for proposed measures or changes.

The other options refer to specific roles or entities that may have influence in the referendum process but do not have the independent authority to call for one. For example, while the mayor or city council may support or propose a referendum, it is ultimately the governing body as a whole that can make that official call. Similarly, the state legislature may set certain laws regarding referenda but does not independently initiate them at the municipal level.