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MyspaceSanta Barbara voters will soon be casting their ballots almost exclusively by mail. As the result of irreconcilable differences with county elections officials over the cost of city elections-which are held in off-years-Santa Barbara city officials opted to go their own way in 2007, hiring outside consultants to count votes. While that effort was $220,000 cheaper than what the county would have charged, city officials reckon they can save $50,000 more with mail-in elections. “Tastes good and less filling,” joked Councilmember Helene Schneider. “It costs less and increases voter turnout. What’s not to like?” Councilmembers Das Williams and Dale Francisco opposed the measure, while Iya Falcone abstained, without explaining her reasons for doing so. Under the mail-in system, voters would have a month to fill out ballots and mail them in. City Hall would maintain seven polling places. The City of Santa Barbara intentionally holds elections in off-years so that voters are more focused on city issues and not swept up by national or statewide considerations. Because Santa Barbara is now the only municipality in the county to do so, there are no other entities with which to share the costs.
Mail Vote for City Elections
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Previous Month
Comments
Sounds good to me, although I cannot vote in SB city elections. Just make sure you do not have a fiasco like the one for the senate race in Minnesota.
I love the opportunity to vote by mail as I never know when I will be present for elections and voting is important.
I remember years ago, taking a friend who was almost paralyzed to a voter precinct on State Street. I;m little and she was big and I had a very difficult time getting her into my car. I could not get her close enough to the polls, so went in and had someone come to my car and she was able to vote.
This is a good .
bajamama (anonymous profile)
March 12, 2009 at 1:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Francisco, Falcone and Williams refused to support this measure because it would dilute the impact of the powerful interest groups that have funded them and which continue to dominate city hall.
This is a major step toward more participatory democracy and a blow to special interest group power.
A tip of the hat to Helene Schneider, Grant Houses, Marty Blum and Roger Horton for doing the right thing for the right reason.
RHS (anonymous profile)
March 12, 2009 at 11:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)