How vacant seats are filled elsewhere

July 29, 2005

Mat-Su Borough

According to Borough Clerk Michelle McGehee, the borough uses a method similar to the one used in Wasilla in filling a vacancy, but stressed that the vote is always handled publicly.

"Any vote held by the assembly is a public vote. The public has a right to know how their elected officials vote. We don't ever use secret ballots."

City of Palmer

City Clerk Janette Bower also emphasized the public nature of council votes.

"The council nominates people and individuals are welcome to apply. The council then interviews each applicant and a vote is held for each person. The person with the majority of the votes is then appointed to fill the vacancy. We would never use a secret ballot. All our votes are always done openly for the public to see."

- Darrell Breese