If the governing body of the local government makes a decision to issue general obligation bonds for a public works project, and concurrently decides to hold an election for ascertaining the will of the electorate, then it need not adopt and publish an initial resolution and notice, but it shall adopt an election resolution in accordance with §9-21-209 and it shall hold an election in accordance with §9-21-210. A governing body may also hold an election for ascertaining the will of the electorate after adoption and publication of an initial resolution, even if no petition has been filed.