The governing body of a Class 8 municipality may, by resolution adopted within 60 days after the date on which the United States Justice Department determines not to interpose objection to this article, provide for a referendum of the registered voters of the city or town to determine public opinion as to whether the candidate elected mayor at the 1996 municipal election, and thereafter, shall serve in a full-time capacity. Except as otherwise provided herein, any referendum conducted pursuant to this article shall comply with general municipal election laws for special elections.