Hopkins School Board considers switching elections from odd to even years

In a recent meeting of the Hopkins School Board, members discussed the potential shift from odd-year to even-year elections for school board positions, a change that could significantly impact voter participation and district finances. Currently, Hopkins conducts its elections in odd years, a practice that is becoming increasingly uncommon across Minnesota. The board's exploration of this topic was prompted by proposed legislation that may require such a transition.

Treasurer Hartland, co-chair of the Legislative Action Committee (LAC), presented data indicating that odd-year elections yield low voter turnout, with fewer than 7,000 votes cast in the most recent election, despite approximately 40,000 registered voters in the district. This low participation rate highlights the potential benefits of aligning school board elections with larger state and federal elections, which typically see higher engagement from the electorate.

The financial implications of this shift are also noteworthy. By moving to even-year elections, the district could save an estimated $50,000 to $63,000 per election cycle. This figure accounts for shared costs with other municipalities, which would dilute the financial burden on the district. Currently, the costs associated with running odd-year elections are borne entirely by the district, including expenses for staffing, equipment, and rental spaces for polling locations.

The board acknowledged that transitioning to even-year elections would not only enhance democratic participation but also alleviate financial pressures on the district, which has faced budget deficits in recent years. The discussion also touched on logistical considerations, such as the need for adequate staffing to manage elections, which has become increasingly challenging.

As the board deliberates on this potential change, they will need to consider the timing of the transition. Options include extending current terms or waiting for the next election cycle to implement the change. The decision will ultimately rest with the school board, which must weigh the benefits of increased voter turnout and cost savings against the complexities of altering election schedules.

In conclusion, the Hopkins School Board's discussions on shifting to even-year elections reflect a broader trend towards enhancing voter engagement and managing district finances more effectively. As the board continues to explore this issue, the community will be watching closely to see how these decisions unfold and what they mean for future elections.