CITY WARD SYSTEM NEEDS TO PROVE ITS VALUE

Time is running out for candidates to file for three openings on the Cape Girardeau City Council. The filing period ends Nov. 23.

Dr. Melvin Kasten, who represents Ward 4, and Melvin Gateley, who represents Ward 5, are not eligible for re-election because of term limits in the city charter. Jay Purcell, who represents Ward 3, is running for re-election. He filled an unexpired term in 1994.

The ward system was adopted by Cape Girardeau voters as a way to get more people involved in city government and to provide more opportunities to vote. This just hasn't happened. Ward election numbers have simply not improved since 1992. In that year, 3,830 ballots were cast for two council members. It represented 24 percent of registered voters.

Numbers were significantly higher in 1994 but the casino issue, the city charter and the mayor's race were on the ballot. That year, 9,506 ballots were cast, representing 52 percent of voters.

In 1996, voters cast 2,494 ballots for two council seats and charter changes. That was 11 percent of registered voters. The last election -- 1998 -- faired slightly higher with 3,446 ballots cast, representing 15 percent of registered voters. Efforts statewide to increase voter registration have paid off, but those people don't seem to be voting.

With term limits kicking in on City Council positions, now is the time for ward opponents to prove that the system can really work. It's time for more people to get involved in city government, both by running for office and getting out to vote.

The requirements are slim: Prospective candidates need only to have lived in the city for two years. That requirement was shortened from four years when term limits were adopted in 1996. Candidates must, of course, live in the ward they wish to represent. Those wishing to run must gather signatures of at least 50 registered voters to earn a spot on the ballot.

Council candidates do best when they provide both dedication and vision. In return, council members can find satisfaction in helping a good city become even greater through public service. Public involvement through candidates and voter turnout will prove the true worth of the ward system for Cape Girardeau.