It is election season, and even though the initial Primary Elections are over, voters need to be informed about the elections to be conducted this May.

The City of Sealy posted and only received applications for the ballot Place 3 and Place 6 from the incumbents Bradley Miller and Adam Burttschell. Subsequently, the Council canceled that election. HOWEVER, city voters must be ready to either vote early or on Election Day, May 7, for the propositions for the Home Rule Charter. The voters of Sealy initiated and approved a Home Rule Charter May 8, 1996.

The form of government adopted by the charter in 1996 is known as a Council-Manager form of government. City Council shall enact local rules, adopt a budget, determine policy and appoint a City Manager who provides daily administration prescribed by various city ordinances, the State Constitution and State Law. Requirements include that the Charter be reviewed at least every five years. It was reviewed by an appointed Commission and amendments were submitted in May 2017. This year, the Charter Review Commission has submitted several propositions for the voters to vote yes or no.

If the majority of citizens vote yes, Proposition 1 would delete the three-year term limitation for a council member filling a partial unexpired term; Proposition 2 would amend the charter so language of forfeiture of office in the Charter to run for another office would be consistent with state law; Proposition 3 would allow City Council to fill a vacancy if the unexpired term is 12 months or less; Proposition 4 would amend the requirement to canvass elections and declare results to concur with State Law, and; Proposition 5 would allow Council to extend the Charter Review Commission’s term of office beyond six months if needed for further study.

You will receive additional information in a future utility billing for further study. You may also call the City Secretary at 979-885-3511 to receive further information as you determine your vote.

There are several other important political elections in May and as I have said before: you the citizen, the taxpayer, the voter should always be informed, and go to the polls to express your opinion. As always, I and staff are always available to be of assistance regarding your city concerns.