June 6, 2012 - Run-Off Elections Could Cost Tens Of Thousands Dollars

Source: KION-46 (kionrightnow.com)
Title: Run-Off Elections Could Cost Tens Of Thousands Dollars
Date: June 6, 2012 
By: Jacqueline Tualla

SANTA CRUZ -- If the race for Santa Cruz County Supervisor District 5 heads to the November ballot for a run-off race, it would cost taxpayers more money.

Bottom line, County Clerk Gail Pellerin says elections are costly, and a run-off election would add to that.

It could be anywhere from $40,000 to $50,000 for more materials, space on the ballot, machines, translations and audits to put the contest on the ballot.

That's $1.00 to $1.50 per registered voter and in the district there are 32,000.

"If someone wins 50 percent plus one, they are elected," Pellerin said. "If someone doesn't get 50 percent-one, then the top two from the county sup race will appear in a run-off in November."

For Monterey County's first and fifth supervisorial districts, it would cost about 70,000 dollars.

But it's not all bad news.

Since the run-offs are happening in the General Election, counties do save money.

It costs about three times more to hold a special election.

"If you think about it, it's like riding a taxi," Pellerin said. "If one person is riding the taxi alone, then you're paying the whole cost. But if you're sharing it with 12 other people, then it's a lot cheaper."

The results from the election won't be certified until July 3.

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