Missouri: Columbia city councilman targeted in a recall

Columbia Councilman Fred Schmidt is facing petitions today, over his support for an economic development program that offers state tax credits and local tax abatement to businesses that expand their operations within the borders of a designated zone.

Schmidt is also being targeted for his backing of a parking garage and his vote in favor of downtown surveillance cameras.

Petitioners need 30% of turnout. The last election saw about 1,000 votes cast in a four-way race. Note that Mitch Richards, Keep Columbia Free's treasurer, came in second, though they claim he's not running for the seat.