Cost of elections

(3/22/2010) Q: How much would we save by having mayoral and aldermanic elections every four years?

A: A mayoral primary costs a minimum of $84,490 (up to $70K more if there is also a republican primary) and a General Election $94,220 for a total of $178,810 ($248K w/ Republican Primary). In addition, in 2011 the State of Connecticut will no longer reimburse towns for the printing of ballots so costs will increase going forward. A Charter Review Commission could be tasked with determining the feasibility of switching to a 4 year term. This measure would then have to be approved by the BOA and voted on in the November Election.