Memorandum 10-65 Amendments to HCC 4.01 and 4.30 Elections

M E M O R A N D U M 10-65

TO: MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
FROM: JO JOHNSON, CITY CLERK
DATE: MAY 4, 2010
SUBJECT: AMENDMENTS TO HOMER CITY CODE CHAPTER 4.01, GENERAL PROVISIONS, AND CHAPTER 4.30, ABSENTEE VOTING.

In an effort to align our election procedures in accordance with the State’s requirements, amendments to Chapters 4.01 and 4.30 will streamline procedures for absentee voters and save the City in advertising costs.

Proposed amendments to Chapters 4.01 will require the advertisement for voter registration be published earlier to alert more residents of the opportunity to register to vote. Removing the legal description of voting precincts will reduce the size of the advertisement by half, reducing costs substantially. In accordance with Alaska Statutes Title 29 polling locations will still be advertised. With just two precincts, Homer No. 1 and Homer No. 2, residents are familiar with their assigned polling place.

The amendment to Chapter 4.30 will be beneficial to absentee voters. The change will allow voters to request absentee ballots early each calendar year, likely increasing absent voter response.

RECOMMENDATION:
The City Council pass Ordinance 10-25 Amending Homer City Code 4.01.050, Notice of Election, and Homer City Code 4.01.060, Precincts and Polling Places, Regarding Election Notice Requirements; and Amending Homer City Code 4.30.030, Application for Ballot, Regarding the Time to Apply by Mail for an Absentee Ballot.

Fiscal Note: N/A