The League of Women Voters (LWV) of Santa Barbara supports the passage of Measure A. The League’s position is based on its long standing USLWV national position on Voting Rights and Citizen’s Right to Know. This position encourages all citizens to vote. The increase in voter turnout since 1995 in even numbered years (66.8 percent) over odd numbered years (37.8 percent) is remarkable. These data submitted by the County Elections Bureau show that general elections increase voter turnout. The League believes aligning Santa Barbara City elections with other general elections will encourage greater voter participation.
The League also bases its support for Measure A on the League of Women Voters of California state position on State and Local Finances, Adequacy of Revenue by cost-management saving techniques, and Flexibility of Revenue by a continuing search for better ways to finance government. Estimates provided by the County Elections Bureau show that a county-run odd year election would cost the city between $500,000 and $600,000 per election. The cost of a city-run odd year election is approximately $280,000 per election. The County Elections Bureau estimates its cost to run an even year election for the City of Santa Barbara is between $30,000 and $60,000 dollars.
Based on the foregoing League positions and local data, the League of Women Voters urges a “Yes” vote on Measure A.—Beverly King, Chair, Ad Hoc Advocacy Committee League of Women Voters
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