Jessica Boehm | The Republic
Phoenix is one of just a handful of Arizona cities that hold city council and mayoral elections on different dates than statewide elections.
While the state runs elections in August and November of every even-numbered year, Phoenix holds its elections in odd-numbered years.
Some, mostly conservative, council members have tried to move the dates to match the state’s schedule for decades, but the idea has never gained traction — until now.
In a surprising 6-3 vote, the Phoenix City Council recently took an important first step toward consolidating elections.
The council could ask voters to weigh in on the date changes as early as August. Since election dates are part of the city’s charter, voters would have to approve the change.
Phoenix previously has fought at the Legislature and in court to maintain separate elections, which is why the council’s decision surprised some City Hall observers.
