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Council tables first reading to shift city elections to May primaries, seeks more county coordination
Summary
Council voted 4–2 to table a first reading of a charter‑conformity ordinance that would move Morgantown municipal elections to the May statewide primary date and provide transition terms. Members cited need for more coordination with the county on precinct/ward alignment and redistricting timing.
Council considered a first reading on an ordinance to amend the city charter to move Morgantown municipal elections from an April odd‑year date to the May statewide primary date in even years and to adopt transition provisions for shorter interim terms.
City Attorney Simonson said the ordinance is intended to conform the city's schedule to West Virginia's Senate Bill 50, which requires municipalities to move elections to either the May primary or the November general date; the draft sets interim three‑year terms for 2027 and 2029 to align future elections to even years and the May primary cycle.
Several council members urged additional coordination with the County Clerk on precinct and ward boundary timing and with the city's Ward and Boundaries Commission. Councilors expressed concern about moving forward without more due diligence on how municipal wards will align with county precincts and the practical implications of redistricting cycles.
A motion to table the ordinance passed on voice and roll call, 4–2. No charter language change was adopted; the matter will return to council once additional coordination and review have been completed.
