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Charter Commission <br /> July 8, 1999 <br /> Page 8 <br /> WARD SYSTEM AND TERM SYSTEM <br /> Commissioner Dunn stated the City has matured to the point where a ward/precinct system may <br /> be needed to divide the four elected officials within the City for equal representation. He asked <br /> the Commission for an expression of opinion regarding this issue. He indicated he is willing to <br /> be part of a subcommittee to review and study the issue. <br /> Commission DeMotts noted the City should have six precincts but there is not room for them. <br /> Commissioner Bening noted the number of precincts will be based on the 2000 census. <br /> Commissioner Dunn stated the Charter Commission should determine if"at large" or the ward <br /> system is best. <br /> Commissioner Bening stated that he agrees a subcommittee should be formed to study the issue. <br /> The way other cities do it should be investigated. The goal should be to study the issue, report <br /> back with information, and determine if it is feasible. If it is feasible it could be voted on in the <br /> off year election to become effective 2001. <br /> Commissioner DeMotts indicated he is willing to serve on the subcommittee. He noted that <br /> more than one precinct can be in a ward. <br /> Commissioner Kenfield asked if the current Charter supports a ward system and if the issue is <br /> part of the Charter Commission's charge. <br /> Commissioner Dunn advised that determination would be part of the legal analysis. He stated <br /> the issue is the responsibility of the Charter Commission. <br /> Commissioner Trehus stated there are drawbacks to the ward system. The ward system does <br /> limit your choices as to who you can vote for. With the "at large" system voters have better <br /> choice. <br /> Commissioner Dunn stated the Commission needs to decide if a ward system is a good idea and <br /> how it can be implemented. A study would need to be done. <br /> Commissioner Sullivan asked why the Charter Commission would be involved in this and what <br /> section of the Charter would have to be amended. <br /> Commissioner Dunn stated an analysis would determine if a ward system could be implemented. <br /> Commissioner Dahl stated that with a ward system the City would have to have six elected <br /> officials. The ward system can put neighbor against neighbor. She indicated she is not in favor <br /> of a ward system. <br /> 8 <br />