Local Elections to Move to Even-Year Ballots

The New York Court of Appeals (the state's highest court) today upheld the 2023 law that requires counties and towns to hold elections for certain offices in even-numbered years instead of odd years. NYAOT Executive Director Christopher Koetzle issued the following statement regarding the decision. 

“I am deeply disappointed by the New York Court of Appeals’ decision this morning to uphold the Even-Year Election law. Holding town elections alongside state and federal contests undermines local government. Town issues will be overshadowed by national politics, ballot drop-off will increase, and local services risk becoming politicized. Although this outcome was anticipated, NYAOT is particularly troubled by the Court’s characterization of local governments and its treatment of home rule. Supporting and protecting home rule is central to our mission, and we will continue to oppose any legislation or policy that weakens it.”

Click here to download our updated Frequently Asked Questions regarding the Even Year Election Law (EYEL).