Deadline Nears for Vote on Districts

By Dave Freneaux
    In the recent city elections every candidate campaigned promising district representation on city council.  This can be done by a simple vote of the city council, or the council can put it to a vote of the people.
    The deadline for putting the issue on the November ballot passed last Friday, and the October 21st deadline for the December 6th election is approaching quickly.  The cost to put an item on the December ballot for such a vote of the people is estimated to be less than $3,000.  The city council has not yet put this item on the agenda for discussion.
    Three current council members, Vance, Messina, and Evans, and Mayor Shelton, all campaigned on expanding the council to seven members with five in districts and two at large.  Council Member Fralick supported expanding the council if it was the will of the people.  Council Member Ellis opposed adding seats to the council.