Election is no sleeper

Some spring elections can be rather sleepy, with few competitive races or compelling issues. That’s not the case with Tuesday’s election.

In addition to choosing a new mayor, Wichita voters will select members to the Wichita City Council and school board and decide whether to lessen penalties for first-time marijuana possession.

The mayoral race comes at a pivotal time. Voters rejected last November a proposal to raise the city’s sales tax to help pay for expanded water supply, public transportation, road and infrastructure repairs, and an economic development fund. How should the city move forward?

Fortunately, there are two quality candidates vying for mayor. City Council member Jeff Longwell and retired business executive Sam Williams care deeply about Wichita and want to help it succeed.

But the mayor is only one vote on the City Council, so the three council races also are important.

This is also a critical time for school districts. Gov. Sam Brownback recently signed a bill that cuts current year funding and will use block grants to fund school for the next two fiscal years while the Legislature works on a new finance formula. Meanwhile, the courts may intervene to stop the new law and order increased funding. Wichita and area school districts need wise leaders to navigate this uncertainty.

The election has added interest because of the marijuana ballot question. Wichita voters will decide whether they want to make a $50 fine the penalty for a first-time offense conviction for possession of 32 grams or less of marijuana and/or drug paraphernalia by those 21 or older. The question is complicated by threat of legal action by Attorney General Derek Schmidt if voters approve the measure.

Residents of the Oaklawn area of Wichita also will vote on whether to issue bonds to help pay for a splash park and other improvements. Andover residents will vote on whether to raise their city sales tax.

Much is riding on this election, so be sure to vote (and remember to bring a photo ID). Those who still have questions about the candidates should consult The Eagle’s online Voter Guide.

Here are The Eagle editorial board’s recommendations in contested races. Full endorsements are at Kansas.com/opinion.

Wichita mayor: Jeff Longwell

Wichita City Council

District 2: Pete Meitzner

District 4: Jeff Blubaugh

Distict 5: Bryan Frye

Wichita school board

District 4: Joshua Blick

At large: Sheril Logan

Marijuana question: No

This story was originally published April 6, 2015 at 7:06 PM with the headline "Election is no sleeper."