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March 3,, 2008 T o.- Bill Malinen,, City Manager Fr.- Carolyn Curti, Elections Coordinator Re.- Special Election The City Council is discussing whether to hold a special election to fill a vacancy should on occur. Three immediate concerns come to mind.* turnout,, cost and timing of a special election. Turnout Historically, voter turnout is low at special elections. In the April 2004 special election, voter turnout was 13.8%. This compares to a 35.1 % voter turnout at the November 2003 election and a 26.9% voter turnout at the November 2005 election. Roseville has a high senior population, and many seniors head for warmer climates during the winter months. To ensure that all Roseville residents be given the opportunity to vote (including by absentee ballot 1, the City would have to advertise in a variety of ways. Cost The City would likely spend around $,15,000 for a special election, assuming no primary and assuming all current polling places are available. If not available the City would incur additional costs finding a new location and notifying all voters in that precinct (required by state law),. Costs would include election judge training, publicity, supplies, ballots,, staff time and incidental costs Timing of the Special Election A City cannot set an election until there is a vacancy. In 2004,, the City held a special election on April 20, approximately 31 /z months after a vacancy was declared. it takes several weeks to get ready for an election, including allowing time to publish a vacancy and time for candidates to apply. The City must also allow 30 days for absentee voting which adds to the time needed before setting an election date. From a logistics standpoint, it takes several weeks to recruit, schedule and train judges.