Are Lisbon Councilors Rigging Their Job Security?

Guaranteeing Job Security‏

Twice in the last two years Lisbon residents have voted to recall  a Councilor. In both instances the councilor retained their seat.

 

The  second recall vote count was in favor of removing the councilor but due to a turnout technicality the gentleman remained in office.

As a response to these recalls , the Lisbon Council is attempting to revamp the charter to make it more difficult to remove one of their own.

In my opinion the existing recall barrier which requires voter turnout to be 30% of the turnout of the last presidential or gubernatorial election is almost mathematically impossible to hurdle. I cant imagine trying to make it more difficult for the public to remove an undesirable councilor.

If the council really wants to improve the recall procedure they should remove the existing 30% barrier and abide by the wishes of the majority vote.

We will have to wait to see what conditions they add or better yet remove from this recall procedure.

　

I hope our Councilors aren't attempting to guarantee their own job security with this charter change. Elected Officials should always remember they serve at the pleasure of their constituents.

F.E. Stacey

Lisbon