Discuss and Provide Feedback on Subcommittee Draft Report Regarding City Council Vacancies

Summary

City Council will discuss and provide feedback on a subcommittee's draft report concerning City Council vacancy procedures. The report recommends amending the City Charter to fill appointed vacancies at the next statewide general election (November) to reduce election costs and increase voter turnout. It also recommends no change to the current limit of two appointed Councilmembers serving simultaneously, and advises against limiting the duration of appointments. A non-substantive amendment is also proposed to clarify the Mayor's voting rights on vacancies if other amendments are placed on the ballot.

Citizen Impact

Changes to how City Council vacancies are filled could impact the cost of elections for taxpayers, the duration of unelected representatives, and overall local governance and representation.

Confidence

high