2004_0126_Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

City Council Study Session — Ol/12/04 DRAFT Minutes - Page 15 legislation, outlining four concerns of staff that were related to voter education, cost, accuracy, ballot printing, and the timing in pursuing the legislation in conjunction with the Special Election to fill the Council vacancy. Councilmember Maschka spoke in favor of a Resolution of support to pursue the special election that would be used only in special elections, but providing an option to pursue. Ann Berry, League of Women Voters (LWV) Ms. Berry noted that the League of Women Voters study of Instant Runoff Voting was part of a larger state study on a variety of voting issues and options; and that the scope of the study had been expanded to include other systems. Ms. Berry anticipated the results of the state study within a few months; and encouraged those interested to participate in the public meetings for additional information. Mayor Klausing sought clarification as to the LWV's position, with Ms. Berry confirming that the LWV had not taken a position at this time, pending completion of the statewide study and further discussion. Bruce Kennedy,1416 Skillman Avenue W Mr. Kennedy noted that his affiliated organization, "Fair Vote Minnesota" was looking to bring alternative voting methods to the State of Minnesota and the City of Roseville. Mr. Kennedy briefly reviewed the Instant Runoff process. Mayor Klausing noted his intrigue with the process; reiterated his disappointment that a Primary would not be held in conjunction with the Special Election this spring; and expressed his main concern in educating the public if this election process were used in the Special Election. Mr. Kennedy expressed his desire to inform and educate the public regarding the process, to ensure their comfort level. Further discussion included the need for hand counting of ballots due to the incompatibility of software in current