26 August 2008

Electors may demand a poll on electoral system

The Kapiti Coast District Council has resolved to retain the STV (Single Transferable Vote) electoral system for the next election to be held in 2010 but electors have the option to change back to FPP (First Past the Post) if 5 per cent or more demand a poll, Chief Executive Pat Dougherty, said today.

The Council is publicly advertising the decision to retain STV and, at the same time, it is required to advise the public of the right of 5 per cent of electors to call for a poll to overturn the decision.

“This means the STV (Single Transferable Vote) electoral system will be used for the 2010 general election of the Kapiti Coast District Council and its Community Boards and any associated elections unless a poll of electors decides against this,” Mr Dougherty said.

“A valid demand for a poll has to be made in writing, signed by at least 5% of eligible electors of the Kapiti Coast District Council which means 1766 valid elector signatures will be required and it must be delivered to the office of the Kapiti Coast District Council, 175 Rimu Road, Paraparaumu by 5pm on Friday 27 February 2009,” he said.

“For the demand for the poll to be valid every elector who signs must include his or her full name and the address for which he or she is qualified as an elector of the Kapiti Coast District Council.”

ENDS

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