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Charter committee votes to recommend 4-ward/3 at-large system to City Commission
Summary
The committee voted 8-4 (with two abstentions) to recommend that the City Commission consider shifting from at-large elections to a hybrid system of four wards and three at-large seats; members debated how wards would be defined and potential anti-gerrymandering safeguards.
The Sandusky Charter Review Committee voted to recommend that the City Commission consider a change in form of government to a hybrid system of four wards and three at-large commissioners.
A member introduced the motion to recommend 4 wards and 3 at-large seats, and committee debate focused on how wards would be drawn, whether the City Commission or another body should set ward boundaries, and whether the charter should require equal-population wards or use language such as "as equal as practicable." Speakers referenced a prior ballot measure on wards and expressed differing views on whether wards would improve service to underrepresented neighborhoods.
Tim Schwanger emphasized the committee's limited role: "All we're doing here is we're recommending to the City Commission," a reminder that the committee's vote does not change the charter without subsequent commission action and, if placed on a ballot, voter approval.
After discussion, the committee held a roll-call vote. The recorded result was 8 yes, 4 no and 2 abstentions; the chair and members agreed the recommendation will be forwarded to the City Commission for consideration and possible placement on a future ballot for voters to decide.
Members asked the law department to clarify language on how wards would be established (population basis, use of census data, and anti-gerrymandering language) before any final charter text is prepared.
