The ward system is a common method of representation in many smaller cities and has been a staple of local governance for centuries.
In fourth-class cities, there is a growing trend toward abandoning this traditional system in favor of a more unified and efficient approach. In this article, we will explore the advantages of letting go of the ward system in 4th class cities and how it can lead to better governance, enhanced representation, and improved decision-making.
- Promoting Fair and Equal Representation
One of the primary advantages of abandoning the ward system is the promotion of fair and equal representation for all residents of a 4th class city. In the ward system, each ward elects its own representative, often leading to unequal distribution of resources and attention. Abolishing this system allows for city-wide representation, where elected officials are accountable to the entire population, rather than just their specific ward. This shift ensures that every citizen’s voice is heard and their concerns addressed, irrespective of where they live within the city. It fosters a sense of unity and cohesion among residents, as decisions are made with the entire city’s interests in mind.
- Streamlined Decision-Making
The ward system can often lead to a fragmented approach to governance, where individual ward representatives prioritize their constituents’ needs over the city as a whole. Abandoning this system streamlines decision-making processes, as the focus shifts from ward-specific concerns to broader municipal issues. This simplification can lead to more efficient and effective policymaking, as city officials work together to address common challenges and opportunities. It reduces the bureaucratic hurdles that can slow down progress and enables the city to respond more swiftly to emerging issues.
- Encouraging Accountability
With a city-wide representation system, elected officials are more directly accountable to the entire population. In the ward system, it can be easier for representatives to deflect blame or responsibility onto other wards or officials. However, in a unified system, transparency and accountability are heightened, making it clear who is responsible for particular decisions or actions. This transparency encourages elected officials to work diligently and ethically in the best interests of the entire city. Residents can hold them accountable through city-wide elections, ensuring that their concerns are taken seriously and their votes truly matter.
- Fostering Inclusivity and Diversity
Abandoning the ward system can lead to more inclusive and diverse city councils. In ward-based elections, candidates often focus on appealing to a narrow demographic within their ward to secure votes, potentially leaving out marginalized or underrepresented communities. By moving to a city-wide representation model, candidates must appeal to a broader spectrum of voters, encouraging diversity and inclusivity in local government. This diversity can lead to a more well-rounded and informed decision-making process, as different perspectives and experiences are taken into account when crafting policies and initiatives.
Conclusion: The advantages of abandoning the ward system in 4th class cities are numerous and compelling. From promoting fair and equal representation to streamlining decision-making, encouraging accountability, and fostering inclusivity and diversity, this shift in governance can lead to more effective, efficient, and responsive local governments. While change can be challenging, especially in politics, it is important for 4th class cities to consider the benefits of adopting a city-wide representation system. In doing so, they can pave the way for a more united and prosperous future, where the interests of all residents are truly at the forefront of local governance.
What would this mean to Houston Lake?
Houston Lake is a 4th class city. The system of government for Missouri 4th class cities is prescribed in Chapter 79 of the Missouri Revised Statutes. Fourth-class cities with a population under 1,000 may opt to abandon the ward system and elect all aldermen at large.
In our tiny community of >250 residents with busy lives:
- While the ward system restricts the selection of aldermen to 50% of residents and restricts candidates residents can vote for by 50%, all four aldermen still serve the whole community. All four aldermen can serve any resident who asks. We are just too small to justify the division. The author of this article is a north-side alderman and can personally attest to spending many hours over the last year in service to residents of the south side. This is not due to any lack of south side aldermen, it was just something I was approached about and had time and aptitude to take on. All aldermen can serve any resident who asks.
- It is not easy to find willing and motivated residents to serve as alderman. The job pays $50 a month less taxes and the responsibilities are serious. Under the ward system, if a north-side alderman resigns, a willing resident from the north side must be elected to serve. Ditto for the south side. Abandoning the ward system would allow any willing, engaged resident to serve in any of the four elected positions, effectively increasing the pool of available candidates for any opening by 100%.
In summary – if the city of Houston Lake were to abandon the ward system:
- All residents would be able to vote for any alderman candidate on the ballot.
- All alderman positions could be filled with residents who live anywhere in the city.
- All residents would feel empowered to reach out to any available alderman for assistance.
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Full text of the relevant Houston Lake City Code (HLCC):
Section 105.070. Wards. [Ord. No. 42 §2, 1-12-1961]
The boundaries of the respective wards shall be:
FIRST WARD — The First (1st) or South Ward shall consist of all that area of the City lying south of
line projected from a point in the City limits halfway between Lot 10 and Lot 58, southeasterly through
the lake area and bisecting the center of the dam to the City limits.
SECOND WARD — The Second (2nd) or North Ward shall consist of all that area of the City lying north
of a line projected from a point in the City limits halfway between Lot 10 and Lot 58, southeasterly
through the lake area and bisecting the center of the dam to the City limits.
Full text of the Missouri State Ordinanace
Title VII CITIES, TOWNS AND VILLAGES
Chapter 79< > Effective – 28 Aug 2006
79.060. City to be divided into wards — aldermen elected — aldermen at large permitted for certain cities. — 1. The board of aldermen shall, by ordinance, divide the city into not less than two wards, and two aldermen shall be elected from each ward by the qualified voters thereof, at the first election for aldermen in cities adopting the provisions of this chapter. At such election for aldermen, the person receiving the highest number of votes in each ward shall hold his office for two years, and the person receiving the next highest number of votes shall hold his office for one year; but thereafter each ward shall elect annually one alderman, who shall hold his office for two years.
2. Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection 1 of this section, cities with a population of one thousand or less in the most recent census may, by ordinance, choose to elect aldermen at large instead of by the method outlined in subsection 1 of this section. Under this option, the seats of aldermen shall be filled at large as soon as the current terms expire. Each year thereafter, one-half of the board of aldermen shall stand for election at large for a two-year term.
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(RSMo 1939 § 7113, A.L. 2006 H.B. 977)
Prior revisions: 1929 § 6963; 1919 § 8414; 1909 § 9316