IMMEDIATE ADOPTION
Number
200005
Version
ORIGINAL
Reference
Sponsor
ALD. DIMITRIJEVIC, RAINEY, ZAMARIPPA, DODD, PEREZ, KOVAC, JOHNSON, HAMILTON, COGGS, BAUMAN, LEWIS, MURPHY, STAMPER, II, AND SPIKER
Title
Resolution relating to the creation of a SafeVote program for the Fall 2020 General Election.
Analysis
This resolution directs the executive director of the Milwaukee Election Commission to create, within 30 days of the effective date of this resolution, a SafeVote program under which all registered voters in the City of Milwaukee would receive an application for an absentee ballot along with a postage-paid return envelope in time for them to participate in the Fall 2020 General Election.
Body
Whereas, The right to vote is one of the most sacred in a democracy; and
Whereas, The COVID-19 pandemic has made assembling groups of any size a threat to public health; and
Whereas, The spectacle of thousands of citizens gathering to vote in the Spring 2020 General Election, while in a way inspiring, was an unacceptable danger to their own well-being and that of others and must not be repeated; and
Whereas, Under these circumstances, voting by mail must be seen as the best way to ensure the best possible participation in a vital election; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, By the Common Council of the City of Milwaukee that the executive director of the Milwaukee Election Commission is directed to create a SafeVote program under which all registered voters in the City of Milwaukee will be mailed an application for an absentee ballot along with a postage-paid return envelope in time for them to participate in the Fall 2020 General Election; and be it
Further Resolved, That the director will communicate to the Common Council the details of the SafeVote program within 30 days of the effective date of this resolution; and be it
Further Resolved, That all City departments are directed to assist the director in fulfilling the intent of this resolution.
Drafter
James R. Owczarski
April 15, 2020