Permanent Resident Voting

[Richard Cole]

I've noticed an increasing number of municipalities that are allowing Permanent Residents the ability to vote in Municipal and School Board Elections. I was wondering if Lakewood is likely to consider extending voting rights to Permanent Residents?

[Lynn Farris]

That is a very interesting question. Do you have the pro's and con's on this topic? I could have a great argument all by myself with this one.

[Stan Austin]

Richard---

Could you define Permanent Resident for us?

Thanks, Stan Austin

[Richard Cole]

Permanent Resident - Any person not a citizen of the United States who is residing in the U.S. under legally recognized and lawfully recorded permanent residence as an immigrant. Also known as "Permanent Resident Alien", "Lawful Permanent Resident," "Resident Alien Permit Holder," and "Green Card Holder."

http://uscis.gov/graphics/glossary.htm

Permanent Residents are subject to all local taxing requirements, but are not afforded the privilege of voting in local elections. I would think that if Lakewood allowed Permanent Residents to vote in municipal and school board elections, the feeling of community would be greatly enhanced.

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/casecode/uscodes/18/parts/i/chapters/29/sections/section_611.html for a little more info
I see I need to figure out the links

[Stan Austin]

Richard---

Thanks for the definition. At the moment I think I have to be a traditionalist and hold to the idea that in order for a person to vote in the United States anywhere in any election that that individual has to be a United States citizen.

I can certainly appreciate your argument that an individual might feel more a part of the community if afforded the right to vote but I would maintain that citizenship is an essential requirement first.

Stan Austin