South Milwaukee Council Votes On Terms, Elected Vs. Appointed Issue

The South Milwaukee City Council has weighed in on the length of elected officials’ terms — and whether or not some of our elected leaders should remain that way.

Tuesday, the council voted to introduce a number of ordinances on these topics.

• We voted to make the term of mayor, alderman and municipal judge three years. Currently, the mayor and aldermen serve two-year terms, and the judge serves four. The votes were 8-0 except for the aldermanic term issue. It passed 7-1, and I was the “one.” I voted no on that one because I feel strongly our terms should also be staggered. I explain my position here and here. 
• We also voted to make the positions of city attorney, clerk and treasurer appointed vs. elected — effective in 2017. So that means these three officials will be seeking three-year terms next April, like other elected officials. Then, once that term is over, the positions will become appointed … with the details as to how that will work to be worked out down the road. These measures all passed 8-0.

So, for now, the debate continues. Since these measures were only introduced Tuesday, they must have their first, second and third readings (and more votes) before they are passed. I expect that will take at least two council meetings. Then, because they represent changes to city “charter ordinances,” there is an extra period of time that must elapse before they go into effect.

Of course, I’d like to know what you think of this. Post your comments below!