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r-...om: nt: To: Cc: Subject: Dan Stuart [~~~~Q~ Monday, November 17, 2003 7:35 AM city.cou ncil@ci.roseville.mn.us Itliilt~.~~. Vacant Council Seat Appointment Process Gentlemen: I am writing to express my concern about the process for filling the upcoming vacancy on the City Council. The Mayor's seat, along with the four Council Member seats, are all elected positions. However, under the current ordinance which addresses this issue, the Mayor, and remaining three Councilmen will decide who will fill the vacant seat. Further, with the wide differences of opinion among City Council members, the possibility of a tie vote is very real. As I understand it, if that situation arises, the Mayor is then given a second vote. From my perspective, the general rule in our society is: one person, one vote. This means that, since the Mayor can cast two votes, he has the sole authority of deciding who fills the vacancy. This doesn't seem to fit in with the Democratic style of Government we are supposed to be living under. since the Mayor, and Council Members, are all elected by the people, I believe that the time has come to ammend the existing ordinance to allow for a special election to fill the vacancy. This election would not have a Primary component, but would simply be a one-shot deal. This is the way Democracy is supposed to work. ~ encourage you to apply your collective wisdom, and ammend the existing ordinance immediately, so the voters can elect someone to the vacant council seat. In the past few years, there has been a lot of discussion about ethical behavior where the City Council is concerned. This is an outstanding opportunity to demonstrate your ability to recognize something that is wrong, and to do something about it. Sincerely, Daniel and Peggie Stuart 1091 W Grandview Ave Roseville, MN 55113 1