12/5/13 - A decision by the Linden City Council will extend the term length for its members and eliminate odd-year elections in the city. Legislation passed by the state allowed the city to change its election schedule before January 1st. On November 29th, the council voted 6-to-1 to approve the changes. According to the Tri-County Times, supporters said the off-year elections cost about $6,000 apiece and the issues on them could be merged onto the gubernatorial and presidential elections, which have a higher turnout. They also say extending the council member terms from two years to four years would make sure the council had experience and accountability in office, as well as reduce âsingle issueâ candidates. Councilman Charles Ross cast the dissenting vote, saying he disagreed with the longer terms. At the meeting, one member of the public said eliminating the elections did not provide significant savings in the cityâs $1.5 million annual budget. The mayorâs term will remain at two years. (TD)
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