Voters Decide To End Aurora Election Commission

AURORA, IL — The future of Aurora's long-standing election commission was put into the hands of voters in Tuesday's primary election, and 56 percent voters decided to dissolve the Aurora Election Commission

The question on the ballot read, "Shall the City Election Law be Rejected?" That was the required wording, without any other explanation allowed, as required by state statute and backed by the most recent court orders. Yes votes numbered 6,476 to 5,060 no votes, according to unofficial totals.

Those favoring elimination said the Election Commission is a superfluous level of government, because the County Clerk's office also registers voters and holds elections, and could do so in Aurora.

On Wednesday, Aurora Mayor Richard C. Irvin called the decision a "historic move" in a statement Wednesday,

Aurora officials say the Kane County Clerk would set up an office downtown to provide election services and additional services to residents.

Established in 1934, the Aurora Election Committee is an independent body that consists of three members appointed by Kane County's chief judge. As an independent body, the Aurora Election Commission's expenditures are not directly influenced by voters, but a majority of that cost is picked up by taxpayers.

Aurora officials have said that cost has been upwards of $12 million during the past decade. The Kane County Clerk's office said it could offer the same service for half the cost.

For Irvin, the change goes beyond decreased costs. He said, "Yes, it will save us money, but it will also provide our residents with a more efficient election process and greater access to services with the establishment of a Kane County Clerk’s Office in downtown Aurora."

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