The Montana Legislature should consider changing state law to limit the number of election days to not more than two per year.
The very low participation - a mere
In spite of the fact that schools consume a substantial part of the state and local taxes levied in Montana and have the critical mission of preparing the next generation of citizens for life as adults, the average turnout for school elections generally runs between
10 percent and 12 percent of the eligible electors.
The problem may be a lack of voter interest, but it may also be lack of time on the part of the electorate to participate in numerous elections over the course of the year.
Requiring all elections to be held on the dates of the primary election and general election would have several advantages. Public participation in school district decisions would automatically increase. And a likely more diverse group of electors would participate in the important decisions of who should serve on school boards and the appropriate level of funding for our schools.
Bond levy election results would almost certainly be valid because participation would normally be above the required minimum of 30 percent of the electors. Administering fewer elections per year would save money. And holding these elections on the two main election days might also increase the number of people interested in running for seats on school boards, making the field more competitive.
We think the low turnout rate at school and other special elections is clear evidence that this method of engaging the public in our government's most critical decision-making processes is a failure.
The public does have an obligation to be informed and to participate in our democracy by voting. But the government also has an obligation to facilitate that involvement via the electoral process.
We feel the best way to achieve this is to consolidate elections to the two days each year when the public is accustomed to - and, apparently, willing to participate - on primary and general election days.
|
 |
 |
Add your comment now! Write your comment in the form below.
(Email address is for verification only. If you'd like to email a story, look for the link above)