9-272. Classification of councilmen for purposes of election; terms of office
A. The common council may, by a majority vote of the qualified electors of the city voting thereon, provide by ordinance or resolution, that the members of the council be divided by lot into two classes. The first class shall consist of three councilmen and the second class of four. Those of the first class shall hold office until the next regular election, and those of the second class until the second regular election. At the first regular election held after the change, three councilmen shall be elected, and at the second regular election four councilmen shall be elected.
B. Thereafter councilmen shall be elected in classes of three and four at successive, regular elections and shall hold their office for terms of four years each and until their successors are elected and qualified.