Sen. Brinson and Rep. Humphrey file companion bills to move Pink Hill municipal elections to even years
Legislation follows town board vote, aims to increase voter turnout and reduce costs
RALEIGH, N.C. — State Senator Bob Brinson (R-District 3) and State Representative Chris Humphrey (R-District 12) today announced the filing of companion bills in the North Carolina Senate and House of Representatives to amend the charter of the Town of Pink Hill, moving the town's municipal elections from odd-numbered years to even-numbered years.
The legislation follows a vote by the Pink Hill Town Board to seek the change — a move town leaders say will benefit both residents and the municipal budget. Under North Carolina law, amending a municipality's charter requires action by the General Assembly.
"The people of Pink Hill made a commonsense decision, and it's our job in the General Assembly to carry it out," said Senator Brinson. "Moving Pink Hill's elections to even years means more voters will have a say in their local government, and the town will spend less to conduct those elections. That's a win for everyone."
"Pink Hill's town commissioners looked at the numbers and made a practical call," said Representative Humphrey. "When you align local elections with the years when voters are already showing up at the polls, you get better participation and you save taxpayer money at the same time. I'm glad to carry this legislation in the House."
Under current state law, most North Carolina municipalities hold elections in odd-numbered years. Moving to even-year elections requires a local act of the General Assembly to amend the town's charter — precisely the legislation Senators Brinson and Representative Humphrey are filing. However, many municipalities in Jones and Craven Counties have already made a similar transition to even-year elections.
Senator Bob Brinson represents District 3, covering Beaufort, Craven, and Lenoir Counties. Representative Chris Humphrey represents District 12, covering Greene, Jones, and Lenoir Counties.
