Number
160657
Version
SUBSTITUTE 1
Reference
Sponsor
ALD. BAUMAN
Title
Substitute resolution relating to the implementation of absentee voting.
Analysis
This resolution directs the Election Commission to begin absentee voting at the earliest date permitted by state law and to implement and conduct in-person absentee voting at sites located on the North Side and South Side, and at City Hall, MATC’s downtown campus, Marquette University, and UW-Milwaukee for the entire duration permitted.
Body
Whereas, The City of Milwaukee understands that voting is a constitutional right and privilege and that, through voting, citizens have the opportunity to initiate positive change in their communities; and
Whereas, In most communities and for most elections, the turnout for voting is less than 50%; and
Whereas, The City recognizes the importance of implementing effective strategies that allow residents the opportunity to exercise the right to vote, as well as the importance of providing access to convenient polling sites; and
Whereas, The City supports and encourages residents who prefer to vote by absentee ballot to exercise their right to participate in absentee voting, pursuant to s. 6.85, Wis. Stats.; and
Whereas, In accordance with s. 6.855, Wis. Stats., the City provides residents who are registered to vote and have acceptable identification the opportunity to request applications for absentee ballots by mail or to vote in-person absentee during the appropriate dates and times; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, By the Common Council of the City of Milwaukee, that the Election Commission is directed to begin absentee voting at the earliest date permitted by state law and implement and conduct in-person absentee voting sites at sites located in Milwaukee on the North and South Side, and at City Hall, MATC’s downtown campus, Marquette University, and UW-Milwaukee for the entire duration permitted; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Common Council urges the leaders of MATC, Marquette University and UW-Milwaukee to support the City’s efforts to facilitate absentee voting at these locations.
Requestor
Drafter
LRB166229-1
La-Wanda G. Fletcher
September 9, 2016