This essay is Part 3 in a three-part series on American & Californian democracy viewed through the lens of one modern American city: the microcosm of Thousand Oaks.

In this third installment, we focus on what is meant by representation and whether the actions of local boards to fill vacancies truly honor that concept.

This essay is Part 2 in a three-part series on American & Californian democracy viewed through the lens of one modern American city: the microcosm of Thousand Oaks.

In this second installment, we focus on the right to vote by reviewing the 2005 and 2012 decisions to forgo elections, and the efforts of voters to guarantee their place in city democracy.

This essay is Part 1 in a three-part series on American & Californian democracy viewed through the lens of one modern American city: the microcosm of Thousand Oaks.

In this first installment, we examine the integrity of elections by reviewing the 1994 Council contest. In this race, a field of 16 candidates competed for three seats, and the Council majority sought to place its thumb on the scales leading up to Election Day.

This starts a three-part series on American & Californian democracy viewed through the lens of one modern American city: the microcosm of Thousand Oaks.

There is a valuable community interest in groups hosting debates for candidates.

There is a valuable community interest in groups endorsing and supporting candidates for these offices.

Trying to do both presents conflicts of interest and is disrespectful to the voting public. Here are ways we can change that.