In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the potential transition from a majority voting system to a plurality voting system for elections in the City of Columbia. Currently, the majority system requires candidates to secure more than 50% of the votes to win, often leading to costly runoff elections when no candidate achieves this threshold. The city has faced challenges with this system, including increased election costs—ranging from $40,000 to $80,000 for runoffs—and voter fatigue, as citizens may be reluctant to participate in subsequent elections shortly after casting their votes.

The plurality system, which allows the candidate with the most votes to win without the need for a runoff, was presented as a more efficient alternative. Proponents argue that this change could reduce costs, streamline the electoral process, and potentially increase voter participation, which has historically been low, with turnout rates around 10 to 12%.

During the discussion, some officials expressed a preference for maintaining the current majority system, likening the voting process to a football game that requires sufficient time for a clear winner to emerge. However, the consensus leaned towards exploring the plurality option, especially given that Columbia is the only municipality in Richland County still using the majority system.

Next steps include reviewing a draft ordinance to amend the city’s election code, with the aim of implementing the change by December, ahead of the 2025 elections. This timeline is intended to avoid confusion during the upcoming presidential and statewide elections. The proposal will be forwarded to the city council for consideration, marking a significant potential shift in the city's electoral process.