Akron, OH. – Democracy cannot survive unchecked power. Whether in Akron, the State of Ohio, or Washington, public service must never become a lifetime entitlement. Leaders must lead, serve, and then make space for the next generation. That principle is at the heart of term limits, and it’s a principle Akron must ultimately adopt across its entire leadership structure.
Akron Must Modernize Its Charter: Term Limits for Both the City Council and the Mayor.
For Akron to build a government that is transparent, accountable, and fair, both the City Council and the Mayor must be subject to clear, enforceable term limits. Term limits prevent political dynasties, curb entitlement, and make government more responsive to its residents. But term limits alone are not enough.
We Must Restore Staggered Elections, Just Like Akron Had in the Past
Akron once staggered elections for the City Council and the Mayor, ensuring that leadership did not turn over all at once. This system offered balance, continuity, and experience while still allowing new voices to enter government. We need to bring that back.
Staggered elections:
- Prevent a single election cycle from granting total control to one faction
- Blend experience with new energy
- Create stability in policymaking
- Reduce the risks of political consolidation
A system that combines term limits and staggered elections is a system designed for both accountability and stability. …