ST. MARTINVILLE, La. (KLFY)- The highly anticipated election on the Lawrason Act is underway, as voters head to the polls to weigh in on the potential benefits.

The St. Martinville City Council voted back in February to allow residents to cast their ballots in favor or against the Lawrason Act at the May 3rd election.

The city of St. Martinville is one of only 24 cities in Louisiana that operates under a legislative charter. The charter has been in place in St. Martinville since 1895.

Recently, the legislative charter has drawn criticism and controversy amongst some residents and officials who say the legislative charter does not provide an adequate separation of power between the mayor and the city council.

St. Martinville Mayor, Jason Willis spoke about how he voted yes for the act.

"We can't ask for better if we continue doing the same thing and what we have been doing has not been working," said Willis. "We need to stick on facts and not lies and stuff to scare people in fear, and that alone brings a separation into our community, and that is not what we want."

Ambrose Bernard, a local voter, said he casted his vote in favor of the Lawrason Act, and hopes others will consider the change it could bring.

"We should all come out and vote for something that makes sense to the town or to the black community," said Bernard. "It's time for a change, I hope things get better everywhere."

Despite the outcome of the election, Willis said unity is key to moving the city of St. Martinville forward.

"We still need to come together as a community, and a council and as a mayor," said Willis. "We need to work together for the progress of our city, all the division, all the hatred stuff, all the back and forth, because a difference of opinion is uncalled for. We can have a difference of opinion and still work together."'

Polls are scheduled to close at 8pm tonight. To find your nearest polling location, click here.

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