There is a difference between a resolution and an ordinance. Ordinances are what they generally vote on. Ordinances are law, resolutions are just a way to say those voting on the matter at the time all agree. New faces or changed circumstances can greatly impact the intent of the resolution down the road. Resolutions are not enforceable without the word "binding" in it.
Example: the city council passed a resolution that they agreed amongst themselves not to put election signs out before March 5th. Totally unenforceable. If they were that serious about the matter, why not an ordinance? Because they could not enforce an ordinance either because it would be declared unconstitutional. Those who put their signs out prior to March 5th couldn't be touched for that violation of the so-called resolution.
Same for referendums. The public can vote on one referendum after another, but unless it is a binding referendum, the group the referendum is targeted does not actually have to act on it.