Laserfiche WebLink
Except in the rare case of a vacant council seat the incumbent will continue to represent <br /> the ward pending the outcome of a runoff election. This is true whether the period is 60 <br /> days or five months, and is unrelated to efficiency of government or elections. <br /> It is difficult for a non - incumbent candidate to raise money for a campaign. This is <br /> compounded when there are multiple contenders in the general election. A candidate <br /> needs time to raise funds and to campaign after the race is narrowed to the two finalists. <br /> If one candidate is the incumbent they have a clear advantage in fundraising. And of <br /> greater importance, the extra time allows the challenger a better opportunity to walk <br /> precincts and meet voters. This results in a better informed electorate. <br /> The added cost of moving runoff elections to August are not major; however, taxpayers <br /> should not spend additional funds to create advantages for incumbents. A longer period <br /> between the general and runoff election is not inefficient. It is just longer, and in this <br /> case more equitable. <br /> We urge a "No" vote. <br />