Model City Charter Revision Project - Eighth Edition
Option Memo
Issue: Staggered Terms
Seventh Edition: The Model lists staggered terms as an option
under election at-large, election at-large with district resident requirement,
and the single-member district system. Staggered terms are not recommended
for the hybrid (mixed at-large and single member district) system.
Pros of Preferring Staggered Terms: A city might use staggered
terms if it affirmatively answers the Commentary question "is it
desirable to maintain continuity and avoid radical swings in council
composition?"
Cons of Preferring Staggered Terms: The concerns in a staggered
term system are described in the Commentary, which asks "should
citizens be able to change the direction of their government at any
election, not wait another two years to complete the change? The issue
of whether staggered terms have a discriminatory effect continues to
be litigated." Staggered terms also allow divisive scenarios where,
in direct election of mayor cities, a sitting council member can run
for mayor and retain the council seat if unsuccessful, unless this practice
is prohibited.
Two Options: The Committee should adopt one of the following
positions by the end of the December 7th meeting:
- The Model should express a preference for staggered terms.
- The Model should continue to present staggered terms as an option.
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