Editor’s note: This letter is being reprinted to correct some mistakes made by the Tribune.

The July 29, 2011, issue of the Tribune has a front page story titled: “Mayoral terms petition begins to circulate.” There are those in our city who want to change the mayoral terms from two years to four years. There are some circulating a petition to be signed by registered voters and will be turned into the Albert Lea Charter Commission, whatever that is. Only 400 people need to sign the petition.

It appears to be rather uncertain what will happen next. If only 400 people need to sign the petition then our city council will be able to vote on it. That doesn’t sound like democracy. If 400 voters sign and then it will be put before the voters at the next election, that is democracy.

After the recent mess in St. Paul and Washington, it appears two years is too long for a term. If a mayor does a good job, he can win reelection with very little time or money spent campaigning. If he does not do a good job, two years is long enough.

If someone wants to circulate a petition to keep the mayoral term at two years, I will be happy to sign it.

Roger Fink

Albert Lea