Scottville residents voting on ward consolidation proposal.

Scottville residents voting on ward consolidation proposal.

SCOTTVILLE — Today, May 5, registered voters in Scottville will decide on a charter amendment proposal that will reduce the number of wards in the city from two to one. An amendment to a charter requires a referendum.

Currently, the city is divided into two wards, the first ward is west of Main Street and the second ward is east of Main Street. Each ward is represented by two city commissioners, meaning only one side of the city elects those particular commissioners. The remaining three city commissioners are at-large, meaning they are elected by the entire voting population of the city. If today’s proposal passes, all the city commissioners will be at-large and will be elected by the entire voting population.

Reducing the city’s wards will also reduce election costs by cutting the number of workers required in half.

Today’s election takes place at city hall, 105 N. Main St. A limited number of voters will be allowed in city hall at any given time. Voters are asked to practice social distancing and to wear a mask, as required by one of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s executive orders.

Polls are open until 8 p.m.