The Culver Town Council members opened a public hearing Tuesday night to gather comments on the proposed ordinance that would move the town council and clerk-treasurer selection to the May Primary Election. From there, the candidates would move to the November General Election ballot.
The change, if ultimately approved, would go into effect in 2019, provided an ordinance to the effect is filed with the Marshall County Clerk’s Office before Jan. 1, 2019. The three open council seats would be included on the May Primary Election ballot next year as well as the clerk-treasurer.
As it currently stands, the candidates are chosen by party by the town convention method. Those candidates then move to the November General Election ballot for a formal vote into office on Jan. 1 of the next year.
The Republican Precinct Chairman for Union Township 1 supported the proposal as well as the Democratic Precinct Chairman for Union Township 1. A question was also asked about the 12 year period before the ordinance can be amended. Town Attorney Jim Clevenger commented that is included per state statute.
There was no other public comment.
Immediately following the hearing, the Culver Town Council members unanimously approved the ordinance on second reading. The third reading will be held at the next meeting on Oct. 23.
