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Takoma Park council weighs four‑year terms, election timing and referendum options
Summary
At a March 11 work session, the council discussed a proposed charter amendment to change council terms from two to four years, debated staggered terms (generally rejected), fundraiser/turnout tradeoffs, board‑of‑elections staffing and whether to use an advisory or binding referendum; a public hearing is planned for March 16.
Mayor Searcy opened a council work-session discussion about possible changes to council term lengths, asking members to consider whether to move from two‑year to four‑year terms, whether terms should be staggered, when a change would take effect and whether the council should use a referendum as an advisory or binding tool.
The conversation covered multiple tradeoffs. Councilmember Schlegel said she values accountability and told colleagues that "accountability is stronger with a 2 year term." Councilmember Lamond said she has heard little support…
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