TITLE
Consider a memorandum/resolution to hold a Joint General Election with Killeen Independent School District.
SUMMARY
AGENDA ITEM
Hold a Joint General Election with Killeen Independent School District (KISD)
ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT
City Attorney/City Secretary
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
State law authorizes political subdivisions that may be conducting elections on the same day to contract for joint voting. This allows the voters the opportunity to vote in both the school and city elections at one location for early voting and Election Day. In order to effect this change, the law requires the governing bodies of each political subdivision to enter into an agreement.
DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION
On May 7, 2016, the City of Killeen will conduct a general election for the offices of Mayor and three (3) council members-at-large. On the same day the Killeen Independent School District (KISD) will conduct its general election.
These two agreements cover early voting and Election Day cost sharing and obligations. The “Contract for Election Services - Early Voting” provides for early voting conducted by the City Secretary on behalf of both entities. KISD will reimburse the city for its one-half (1/2) share of the personnel and miscellaneous costs associated with conducting the early voting. Should KISD not be required to conduct an election, Killeen will bear the entire cost of the early voting. The “Contract for Election Services - Election Day” also provides that the City Secretary will conduct the election on behalf of both entities, and KISD will reimburse the city one-half (1/2) of personnel and associated costs. Again, an entity not required to hold an election shall not be required to participate in costs.
FISCAL IMPACT
The estimated cost for holding a general election is $60,000. Should KISD have an election, the overall cost will be reduced by half. $60,000.00 is budgeted in the FY 2016 budget, account #010-1010-416.50-45.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends City Council adopt the attached resolution to hold a joint general election with KISD and authorize the City Manager to enter into the agreements.