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Council explores term limits and districting as ways to boost civic participation
Summary
Council members discussed term limits and the possibility of electing some members by districts to encourage more candidates and improve neighborhood representation; no action taken — staff and council requested more research and possible citizen committee input.
Gig Harbor — At their Feb. 28 retreat, councilors debated two ideas aimed at increasing turnover, representation and civic engagement: term limits for council members and electing some members by district rather than at‑large.
Term limits
One councilor proposed a limit of three consecutive four‑year terms (12 years), followed by a required break of one term before running again. Supporters said limits might open seats for new voices; opponents warned that institutional knowledge and relationships — such as the ability to negotiate…
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