Lehigh charter: expand Election and Registration Commission

The question asks Lehigh County voters whether to expand the Election and Registration Commission from 3 voting members to 5. Under the change, the Commission would have 2 members from each of the two largest political affiliations in the County and 1 member from the third largest, including non-affiliated and independent voters. The change would also let residents apply for seats on the Commission as representatives of their political affiliation. The official statement says the change would take effect immediately if approved. A YES vote approves the change, and a NO vote rejects it.

Purpose The purpose of this amendment is to expand the membership of the Election and Registration Commission. The current Commission consists of the County Executive or his or her designee, and 2 Board appointed members (1 from each of the two largest political parties). The amendment would expand this Commission to 2 members from each of the two largest political affiliations and a 5th member from the third largest political affiliation (including non-affiliated/independent). The amendment would also change the appointment process, enabling residents to apply as a representative of their political affiliation on the Commission. Limitations Membership on the Commission will be limited to 2 members of the two largest political affiliations in the County, and one member for the third largest. Effects If the referendum to amend the Charter is approved by the Electors of Lehigh County, it would be effective immediately.