Yes on Measure BB: Proportional Ranked Choice Voting for Albany

Measure BB would institute Proportional Ranked Choice Voting in Albany. Ranked Choice Voting means you can vote with your values and rank the candidates in order of your preference. Proportional means the results will reflect the makeup of the electorate instead of one group of voters winning all the representation.

It gives voters more choice and more voice. Four Bay Area cities (Berkeley, Oakland, San Leandro and San Francisco) already use it. In Albany, it would make representation more accessible for the API, Latinx, and Black communities, but also renters and working-class families. We all deserve to have a voice in government.

Albany Needs Measure BB

In 2019, we formed Voter Choice Albany because Albany’s government does not reflect the diversity of our community. Albany residents, voters, and community members deserve a government that represents all of us. That is why over 600 Albany residents signed to put Measure BB on the ballot to institute Proportional Ranked Choice Voting.

Greater Inclusion - An End to Winner Take All Elections

When our government represents only the most dominant group, members of our community are locked out of power. When elections reflect more perspectives, we get a government that better represents all of us.

The problem under the current election system:

• Important views are left out
• 51% of voters can control 100% of the seats
• Some voters elect two or three candidates others elect zero
• Diverse views of Albany voters aren't reflected

The Solution - Proportional Ranked Choice Voting

Proportional ranked choice voting gives all communities fair and equal representation in government. It is a form of Proportional Representation that has a long history in our country and abroad. It's been adopted as a voting rights remedy in Eastpointe, MI., and in Palm Desert, CA. It empowers more voters, communities of interest, and new candidates. It will result in a City Council that better reflects the entire city and responds to the interest of all residents. 

Greater Choice, a More Powerful Vote

Measure BB will let voters cast ballots based on hopes and values, instead of fear of splitting support among preferred candidates. By preserving your vote, Measure BB empowers each voter to vote with their values, and ensures that our leaders have the support of the people.

Sample Ballot: 

A Government That Represents Everyone

Measure BB will provide greater opportunities for our diversity to be reflected in city government. Instituting Proportional Ranked Choice Voting means that we are empowering all communities, neighborhoods, voices, and new candidates.