2003_0407_packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Reasons to Keep the Primary Since City is moving to Even Year Elections, rniru' mal extra cost to participate in pnmary beginning in 2006 Without a primary to narrow the field, a very small faction could elect a candidate that is not supported by the majority of the population primary allows citizens to develop a consensus on who will be elected More time and opportunity to get information about the top candidates — voters can make an informed decision Voters will be able to devote time learning about top candidates rather than a lot} some who really have no interest in winning but just want to nin No primary creates an unfair advantage for incumbents andidatcs are under public view for longer time. Voters get to know character and positions on variety of issues. When move to even year election, will confuse voters to not sec City naives on primary bal l of l 6mary means more discussion and more issues which is better for informed electorate Even year length of general election ballot may confuse voters Even year length of ballot may cost City more if go to second ballot Voting for this change could be construed as a conflict of interest since incwmbents benefit from not having a primary Strong support for the primary It's a ridiculous idea to get rid of the primary Reasons to EUminate Primar-y Fewer Election signs More costly for the candidates Issues Raised at Meeting Voting is foundation of democracy Cost of an election is not an issue. Citizens are willing to pay the price for democracy — primary comes out to about 30 cents per resident. Lawn signs are good_ They demonstrate a healthy democracy. People are informed about candidates and showing support. If lawn signs are such a problem, get rid of them by City ordinance. why are we discussing this? was there a citizen outcry to get rid of primary? oa lict of interest for incumbents Eliminate primary o when state goes to weighted elections Page 2