(November 6 - Richardson, Texas) Richardson voters approved the three amendments to the city charter on Tuesday. Turnout was low.

The first of the three propositions allows the city council to set the location of meetings.

The second of the three allows the city council to meet in "executive session" in which the city council may meet in private to discuss matters such as legal cases, personell matters, and economic development.

The third sets term limits for city council members of six two year terms.

	For %	Against %	For - Votes	Against - Votes
Prop 1 - Council meeting locations	73	27	4129	1542
Prop 2 - Executive Session council meetings	84	16	4762	923
Prop 3 - Term limits	78	22	4354	1261

Mayor Steve Mitchell said, “Proposition 2 is a real victory for those who live and work in Richardson. It is an essential component of development and redevelopment. Given the competitive nature amongst cities it’s critical that we have this tool. It’s a victory that will keep us on the road to economic success.”

Council person Gary Slagel had this to say about the election results, “I am pleased that propositions 1 and 2 did well. It lets us get back to business we need to do. Voter turnout in early voting was slower than we thought but it was stronger on election day that we thought. Also, the Collin County [bond] vote is a positive for the city. I’m pleased with it all.”

Council person John Murphy said, “The citizens felt all three propositions should pass. Richardson voters are smart and wise judges. I am very satisfied with executive sessions and meeting locations. I felt term limits would be approved and it’s the voters’ prerogative and I respect that. It is a good election for the city of Richardson.”

Council member Rhea Allison stated, "A previous council member tried to torpedo term limits and failed miserably. I believe the ship has left the harbor and I look forward to continued prosperity in Richardson. The voters of Richardson have spoken."

Council member Pris Hayes said, "The proposed measures were passed at the polls by a strong majority of voters, but from each who cared and took care to cast a vote comes a voice that not only should Richardson continue to be a great City, but it should intend to be the best City, one that endeavors to use wisely such tools granted."

Council person Dennis Stewart said, “It was my intent for people have the say. It was not my intent to for the council to have the say but let the voters decide and it appears they have spoken.”

Chamber of Commerce Chairman Richard Ramey was pleased. He stated, "Richardson Citizens realized the need for the immediate approval of Proposition 1 & 2 supported by the Richardson Chamber of Commerce and showed it by approving them by 73% and 84%, respectively. The approval of these propositions, among other things, will help continue the momentum Richardson has and is experiencing in economic development. The Chamber is extremely pleased with the outcome of this election and look forward to its continued partnership with the City to bring in new businesses into Richardson which will enhance our citizen’s ability to Live, Work, and Play in our great City."

The Colin County bond election will affect roads in northern Richardson. About this Stewart said, “There was a judge [in Collin County] pushing against it but I don’t think he had a case. I think we will get our money’s worth.”

Murphy said, “Folks in Collin County appreciate the partnership between city and county. I think it will help reduce bottle necks.”

Hayes said, "Being strategic in the handling of in-process economic development discussions is important, as is being able to have the opportunity to gain matching funding for the City, in this case via the Collin County bond program, and the outcome of the election recognizes this."

The city council will canvass the results at a special meeting on Wednesday November 14, 2007.