On November 7, City Pages' blogger Aaron Rupar observed in Rochester voters elect dead guy as City Council president:
But, as evidenced by the comments on the Post Bulletin's story, some aren't happy about Hanson's sentimental victory, as it means taxpayers will be on the hook for at least one more special election this spring, and perhaps multiple elections if more than two candidates file and a primary is needed.
Representative Kim Norton (DFL-Rochester) was listening to the complaints. Last week, PB staff writer Heather Carlson reported in Rochester election may lead to election-law change:
Rochester DFL Rep. Kim Norton is considering drafting legislation aimed at addressing a problem uncovered by this year's Rochester City Council election.
Longtime Rochester City Council President Dennis Hanson's name remained on the November ballot even though he passed away on June 27. The issue is that state law does not allow a candidate's name to be removed from the ballot in a nonpartisan race — even if the candidate has died since filling to run. State law also did not allow for a re-opening of the filing period. . . .
A special election is expected to be held in early April to fill the seat, which is expected to cost between $50,000 to $60,000. But the price tag could climb to $120,000 if a primary election is needed.Norton said she wants to see if a change could be made to help avoid this type of situation in the future.
"We shouldn't have to spend this kind of money to do this. There should be a process in place," she said.
Photo: If Kim Norton has her way, voters won't be stuck with the tab for future encounters.
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