Big news is coming to the May 3 ballot, and it’s something that could shape how our city runs in the years ahead. After a decision at the most recent City Council meeting, Boerne residents will get to vote on whether to extend the terms of the mayor and city council members from two years to three years.

Measure A is the headliner of four proposed charter amendments, and it’s focused on giving the mayor and city council members more time to dive into their roles without the constant pressure of campaigning.

If it passes, three-year terms will kick off in 2026, with staggered elections so only part of the council is up for a vote at a time.

Why the Change?

If you’ve ever started a new job, you know it takes a while to get into the groove. Mayor Frank Ritchie, who introduced the measure, says it’s no different for the mayor and city council members.

“I’m on year two, and it felt like I just ran for election a couple of months ago,” Ritchie shared at a recent city council meeting. “Asking a city servant to have to spend the time and energy every two years to be reelected — it’s kind of taxing. I think it takes us a little bit of time to get our feet wet and understand what’s going on.”

The idea is that right now, our city leaders barely have time to settle in. By the time they figure out what they’re doing, they’re back on the campaign trail.

But this isn’t the first time this idea has come up. Back in 2020, voters turned down a similar proposal, with 4,679 against and 4,003 in favor. Will things be different this time?

What Else Is on the Ballot?

Measure A isn’t the only thing to vote on. There are three other proposed changes to Boerne’s city charter:

• Measure B: Getting rid of charter language saying that the council is the final judge of city election results
• Measure C: Adjusting how council vacancies are filled if Measure A passes.
• Measure D: Adding a requirement to review the city charter every 10 years to keep it fresh and relevant.

These updates come from the Charter Review Commission, a group of locals and council members who were tasked to see where improvements could be made.

Who’s Running?

As we approach election season, some familiar faces are stepping up to serve again. Mayor Frank Ritchie has announced his intention to run for re-election, as has Councilwoman Sharon Wright and Councilman Bret Bunker.

If you’d like to run for local office, the deadline to file paperwork is February 14, 2025.

Your Decide

Have an opinion on the length of terms? Mark your calendar for May 3, and make your voice heard! Your vote matters, and this is your chance to have a say in how our city is run.

Let us know in the comments if you’ve got questions or thoughts about the upcoming election!

Edit: An earlier version of this article stated that Bret Bunker would not be running. He in fact, was the first person to file the paper work for re-election, and will be running to retain his seat.