For Immediate Release
The IBO finds that holding local elections on-cycle with state or federal elections would result in $42 million in savings every other year
To view the letter from the IBO, here
The Independent Budget Office does not endorse or oppose the policy under discussion
New York, N.Y. (August 15, 2024) — Today, the City of New York Independent Budget Office (IBO), released a letter outlining how moving local elections on-cycle with state and federal elections would result in approximately $42 million in savings every other year. Citizens Union welcomes the findings, which highlight yet another benefit of consolidating New York City’s municipal elections with presidential or gubernatorial elections.
“The findings from the Independent Budget Office further validate what we at Citizens Union have championed: moving our municipal elections to even-numbered years in New York City is not only a democratic imperative but also a smart fiscal decision,” said Betsy Gotbaum, Executive Director of Citizens Union. “The potential savings of $42 million every other year are significant, but the true value lies in the increased voter turnout and more representative electorate that such a move would foster. We know that holding elections in even-numbered years will engage more New Yorkers in the democratic process, especially young voters and communities of color who have historically been underrepresented in odd-year elections. These findings also suggest that other cities making this shift could realize similar cost savings, adding another compelling reason for change.”
Citizens Union’s January 2023 report, Moving Municipal Elections to Even-Numbered Years, highlighted the benefits of this shift, including boosting voter participation, diversifying the electorate, reducing voter fatigue, and cutting costs. The report drew on national examples and demonstrated how other cities that have made the switch have seen dramatic increases in voter turnout.
The IBO evaluated the potential fiscal impact on New York City’s budget if local odd-year elections were shifted to even-numbered years to coincide with state and federal elections. Their analysis, based on data from the New York City Board of Elections (BOE) annual reports, indicates that odd-year election costs have ranged from $15 million in 2016 to $63 million in 2022, with a five-year average of $42 million. IBO estimates that shifting to on-cycle elections could save the city millions of dollars every other year, as the infrastructure for conducting elections in even years would already be in place.
“New York City’s current election schedule is a relic of a bygone era that does not serve the needs of our diverse and dynamic city,” Gotbaum added. “It’s time we align our local elections with those that already draw higher voter engagement. Doing so will not only save money but will also create a more inclusive democracy where every voice is heard.”
Citizens Union continues to call on New York City and State leaders to take the necessary steps to amend the State Constitution and make this vital change. The benefits are clear: enhanced voter engagement, a more equitable and representative electorate, and substantial cost savings for the city.
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