Phoenix is preparing to sue the state to block a new law that would force Arizona cities and towns to hold elections in the fall in the same years as state general elections. City Council members who want to challenge the law say it infringes on the city’s authority to control its own affairs and govern based on its city charter. Some are also worried about the unintended consequences of the law, such as forcing sitting council members to serve at least a year longer than their elected terms to comply with the legislation. If Phoenix follows through with the suit, the League of Arizona Cities and Towns and other municipalities likely will add their support, league officials said. But not all council members agree with a legal challenge. Some question why the city should fight legislation aimed at increasing voter turnout and saving taxpayers money.
Phoenix has yet to file paperwork to challenge House Bill 2826, which Gov. Jan Brewer signed into law last month. But City Council members who met in executive session last week authorized the Law Department to defend city charter provisions that require council elections to be held separately from federal, state and county elections in the fall of odd-numbered years. County and state elections normally are held in even-numbered years.
Full Article: Phoenix fights Arizona law dictating election years.