Phoenicians vote no on propositions 105 and 106 in special election

Phoenix saw a huge voter turnout for the city’s special election Tuesday night where the majority of Phoenicians voted no on two propositions.

The two ballot measures, Propositions 105 and 106, dealt with two issues that could have changed the landscape of the city. 

“Phoenicians-we did it. From the outset, it was clear that Props 105 and 106 were about more than a difference in opinion–it was more fundamental than that. This election was about what we want our city to be,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego tweeted Tuesday night.

As of 10 p.m., Tuesday night, 62.33 percent of the votes cast — or 112,056 people — voted no on Prop. 105.

If passed Prop. 105 would have amended the city charter to end construction of light rail extensions, including all current projects, and redirect the funds to other transportation infrastructure. It would have also prohibited any future funding for other light rail developments.

“This campaign was never about one track of rail. It was about equity for our entire city and voters delivered on that promise,” Gallego tweeted about Prop. 105.

Prop. 106 would have required annual assessments of the city’s $4 million pension debt. Opponents said it would have also limited city services such as libraries, parks, serving seniors and road repairs.

66.24 percent —or 115,369 people — voted no on the initiative.

Both propositions were strongly supported by Phoenix City Councilman Sal Diciccio.

“Like many of you, I am disappointed to see tonight’s election results. I want to thank everyone who worked on these initiatives and who helped share our message throughout the city,” DiCiccio tweeted. “You have my commitment that I will continue to fight for accountability and fiscal responsibility at the City of Phoenix. Together we will make Phoenix the best city in the country.” 

According to Garrett Archer at ABC15, the 22.3 percent voter turnout is a 3-point increase from 2015 and as of Tuesday, Phoenix had 169,525 ballots returned to the city clerk’s office which was already 45,000 more ballots than were cast four years ago when Prop. 104, a transportation funding plan, was on the ballot.

“The broad coalition that came together to defeat these props deserve our thanks. Today we can celebrate our investment, our city, & our residents. We will have to step up to protect PHX again in the future but we should be encouraged that, together, we continue to move forward,” Gallego said.

Emily Richardson

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