Mayor Peter Micciche’s Ordinance 2023-15, “Amending Borough Code Title 4, Elections, Regarding Declared Write-in Candidates, Canvass of Election Returns, Public Notice, and Certification of Election Results” passed the Kenai Borough Assembly unanimously at the Aug. 1 Assembly meeting.
It was co-sponsored by Assembly members Brent Johnson, Peter Ribbons and Tyson Cox.
This ordinance was designed to correct and clarify process issues that were identified during the special election in which Micciche was elected as interim mayor, which took place Feb. 14, 2023.
Mayor Micciche said, “A primary responsibility of every elected official is to not only ensure but also be able to clearly demonstrate election integrity and transparency. I have no doubt that KPB elections are secure and accurate, yet the processes were not concise and left room for question. This ordinance removes any potential for doubt that KPB election processes are clear and understood and will be followed according to borough code to satisfy the expectations of our most watchful public.”
The limited-in-scope ordinance updated and clarified borough code that will ensure that our elections continue to be safe, secure, transparent and accurate. Improvements include:
- A clear system that sets forth the canvass board process chronologically and emphasizes that the process must be open to citizen election observers and the public.
- Additional public notice and posting requirements to ensure that the public is aware of elections-related meeting schedules.
- A step-by-step process of curing incomplete ballots with the individuals who voted to ensure that each legal ballot is counted in each election.
- A requirement to hand-count ballots in at least one randomly selected precinct.
- A clear process for write-in candidates, as well as the trigger for reporting write-in votes individually.
Mayor Micciche said, “Writing this ordinance has been a collaborative effort. We included everyone interested in better elections at the KPB, including engaged and interested members of the public, the borough clerk, legal staff, members of the canvass board, elections workers and assembly members. Working together, we have strengthened our elections and put citizens’ rights and involvement at the forefront. Serving the public’s interest after hearing from them is what good government does. These improvements to our voting process will increase confidence in our elections. Thanks to all involved in this effort, Ordinance 2023-15 does just that. The truth is, public involvement is critical to a well-run, efficient and responsive government. That is what this administration strives for as a primary objective.”
