In a pivotal meeting held on December 1, 2024, the Lewisville Town Council engaged in a spirited discussion regarding a proposed change to the town's electoral structure. The council is set to present a voter referendum in the upcoming municipal election, asking residents whether to shift from the current two-year terms for elected officials to staggered four-year terms.

The proposed change, if approved, would see the mayor and the three council members receiving the highest votes in the 2027 election serve four-year terms, while the next three highest vote-getters would serve two-year terms. This staggered approach aims to provide continuity within the council, a point that sparked considerable debate among council members.

During the meeting, some council members expressed skepticism about the necessity of a four-year term for the mayor, arguing that the current two-year system has functioned adequately. They highlighted that the potential for complete turnover in council membership is rare, suggesting that frequent elections do not hinder governance. Others countered that a longer term for the mayor would ensure experienced leadership, especially as the town transitions to partisan elections, which could lead to significant shifts in council composition.

The council ultimately agreed that the referendum would allow citizens to decide on the staggered terms, but the specific question of whether the mayor should also serve a four-year term remains unresolved. Council members emphasized the importance of clarity in the upcoming vote, noting that the decision would impact the town's governance structure for years to come.

As the council prepares for the February meeting to finalize the ordinance, the discussions reflect a broader trend seen in many municipalities across the state, where staggered terms are increasingly common. With approximately 73% of towns in North Carolina adopting this model, the outcome of the referendum could align Lewisville with a growing movement towards longer, more stable terms for elected officials.

The council's deliberations underscore the complexities of local governance and the importance of community input in shaping the future of Lewisville. As residents prepare to weigh in on this significant change, the council remains committed to ensuring that the voices of the electorate are heard in determining the best path forward for their town.