"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette.
Charlotte's City Council members are discussing expanding their own terms from two to four years.
Now the issue is divided along party lines.
James Mitchell and other Democrats on City Council believe a longer term could improve government and allow them to make more politically difficult decisions.
(James Mitchell)
"Four years to me allows us to do more long range planning…sometimes we don't make the right decisions because we're looking at short term gain."
But Warren Cooksey and the Republicans' take is slightly different.
(Warren Cooksey)
"I think two is better than four because it creates greater accountability. You go to a four-year term that just separates elected officials from the people that much more."
Proponents of the longer terms say elections cost money and this would save cash.
Critics, like former Council member Don Reid, says it's bad timing to bring this up now when there are so many budget problems looming over the city.
So… two or four years?
YOU could help decide.
City Council recently recommended a committee be created – a cross-section of the city – to gauge public opinion.
So what do you think?
Tell us at SpeakOut-at-wbtv.com.
