the idea is to save the whole nation.
I have a question - can a mayor initiate a referendum in his state?
Honestly, I don't have any idea. Common sense tells me he would not be able to do with a thing without the support of the governor of the state, as the latter has more authority than the former.
Though, I could easily see the major beginning a proposal for a referendum and taking such a proposal to the table of the governor for him to throw it into the next election circle.
If you look at the USA nowadays, you would realize there matters in which each state has their own saying, the latest and more controversial example would be the right on abortion for women.