ARIZONA DAILY STAR:  Tues., June 9, 2009

Overhaul of Tucson elections is backed

By Daniel Scarpinato

PHOENIX — Legislators took the first step Monday toward overhauling city elections in Tucson — changes previously rejected by the city's own voters.  The Senate Judiciary Committee approved a bill that would erase party affiliation from city elections.  Also, if HB 1123 becomes law, it would abolish Tucson's longtime system in which its council members are nominated by ward but are elected citywide.  That system has been in place since 1929 and has survived several public votes and failed initiative drives.  Supporters and the bill's sponsor, Sen. Jonathan Paton, R-Tucson, called Tucson's local government "dysfunctional" Monday and said something needs to change.

FULL STORY:   http://www.azstarnet.com/allheadlines/296237