Syracuse, N.Y. – Voters on Tuesday approved imposing a limit of three consecutive terms for Onondaga County legislators while changing their terms from two years to four.
The referendum passed by a vote of 61,523 to 24,441 with 96% of the ballots counted, according to unofficial results.
It will take effect next year, when all 17 seats in the legislature will be up for election as a result of the state’s new Even Year Election Law.
There are currently no term limits on Onondaga County lawmakers.
The legislature voted 15-0 on Aug. 1 to pass a local law putting the changes on the ballot.
Lawmakers said limiting the number of consecutive terms that an official can serve ensures consistent turnover and encourages new individuals to seek elective office, while allowing for valuable tenured experience in the legislature.
Legislators will be paid a salary of $39,794 in 2026.
