From Ballotpedia
Local ballot measures in New York are allowed in municipalities, although one observer wrote in 1997 that "it is often nearly impossible to get measures on the local ballot."[1]
A New York City judge has ruled that "voters can use the process to amend the City Charter, but not to express mere policy preferences."[1]
Downsizing
Local representatives are seen as the best way for residents to influence their government. A trend has been growing, a dislike towards big government. In 2009, four towns in New York voted in favor of local citizen-initiated referendums to reduce the number of members on their boards from five members to three. Several councils have downsized voluntarily, without the need to put it to a vote. There is also increased talk of dissolution, villages are deciding they do not want to be any more. Downsizing is an increasing trend across the country, residents are realizing that local governments are spending beyond their means and this is one of their ways they are trying to change that trend. Though a study done showed that the tax payers savings when cutting a legislature is negligible, but the residents see it as a tangible way to do something. Although it does not accomplish a significant change, many see it as a step to bigger issues. Downsizing and letting the voters see their ability to change their government leads to bigger issues being tackled and adds momentum to the process.[2]
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 New York Times, "Silenced Majorities", June 2, 1997
- ↑ USA Today, "'Political downsizing' is latest weapon for voters", November 13, 2009
