IX. ORDINANCES – PUBLIC HEARING

City Council Meeting · 2026-05-06 · agenda_item

The City of Tavares is considering an ordinance to amend its City Charter. This ordinance, if approved, would change City Council member terms from two years to four years. It also proposes aligning municipal elections with statewide general elections held in even-numbered years. This change is planned to reduce election costs and potentially increase voter turnout. The ordinance includes transitional provisions for staggered terms. The proposed amendment must be approved by voters in a referendum. The City Council has recommended approval of this ordinance. This process is currently under review and will proceed to a voter referendum. The work involved would primarily relate to election administration and voter outreach, rather than physical construction. Local businesses involved in election services, printing, and voter engagement could find opportunities as the referendum process moves forward. Early engagement with city election officials could provide insight into specific needs.

four-year terms

4 year

two-year terms

2 year

Seats One, Three, and Five

1, 3, 5

Seats Two and Four

2, 4

three-year transitional terms

3 year

November 2028

2028

two years

2 year

approximately $14,000

14,000 dollars

four-year period

4 year

600 to 700 votes

600 to 700 votes

300 votes

300 votes

4-0

4-0