Title
Consider an ordinance calling the May 7, 2022 General Election to elect a Mayor and three Councilmembers-at-Large.
Summary
DATE: January 4, 2022
TO: Kent Cagle, City Manager
FROM: Traci Briggs, City Attorney
SUBJECT: Calling for the May 7, 2022 General Election to Elect a Mayor and Three Councilmembers-at-Large
BACKGROUND AND FINDINGS:
The Texas Election Code, Chapter 3, provides for the ordering of an election not later than the 78th day before the election date. In addition to any other elements required, each order must state the date of the election and the offices or measures to be voted on at the election.
The attached ordinance has been prepared calling the election and giving notice of an election for the purpose of electing a mayor and three councilmembers-at-large and designating the polling places and times.
On November 19, 2021, the City Secretary received a notice from the Texas Secretary of State’s office that the Texas Legislature adopted two joint resolutions in the Second and Third Special Sessions. As a result, there will be a statewide constitutional amendment election held on May 7, 2022. This constitutional amendment election will be administered by Bell County. To prevent voter confusion with multiple ballots and possibly multiple polling sites, city staff and representatives from the Bell County elections administration office are recommending that the City enter into a joint election with Bell County.
THE ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED:
There are no legal alternatives. The mayor and three member-at-large council seats expire May 2022.
Which alternative is recommended? Why?
Staff recommends holding a May 7, 2022 general election for the purpose of electing a mayor and three councilmembers-at-large.
CONFORMITY TO CITY POLICY:
This ordinance conforms to Article IX of the City Charter authorizing the calling of an election to be held on a uniform election date provided for in the Texas Election Code.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
What is the amount of the expenditure in the current fiscal year? For future years?
The estimated cost to conduct this election is $2,600.
Is this a one-time or recurring expenditure?
Holding an election is a recurring expenditure.
Is this expenditure budgeted?
Yes, funds are available in General Fund City Secretary account 010-1010-416.50-45.
If not, where will the money come from?
N/A
Is there a sufficient amount in the budgeted line-item for this expenditure?
Yes.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends City Council approve the ordinance calling for a May 7, 2022 general election to elect a mayor and three councilmembers-at-large.
DEPARTMENTAL CLEARANCES:
City Attorney
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
Ordinance