A legal amendment to city law or an end run around the voters — that’s the question that came before a federal judge Monday in Brooklyn.

“It is unconstitutional and illegal for a term-limited mayor and term-limited city council majority to take it upon themselves to vote themselves the prospect of another term in office. Cutting the voters out of that process who twice before ratified a two term limit, That violates the First Amendment and due process,” said Attorney Randy Mastro.

The lawsuit is a response to Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s decision to sign a city council bill in November extending term limits for public officials from two terms to three.

Those in favor argued that with the city heading deeper into an economic crisis, voters should have the option of keeping the current crop of politicians for another term.

The judge said the term limits question seemed extremely subjective to him.

The two sides presented oral arguments on Monday.

“Plain and simple, the plaintiffs here are complaining about a loss in the political arena and they are trying to dress it up as a constitutional violation. It simply is not one,” said Stephen Kitzinger, Lead Attorney for the City.

Council members who opposed the measure when it was approved by a narrow vote said the term limits question should have been put before voters. In 1993 and 1996, New Yorkers twice voted in favor of the two term limits.

“The people of this city are angry. They are frustrated the mayor and council acted against their will and they want the right to decide this issue,” said City Councilman Bill de Blasio.

Judge Sifton said he will issue a written opinion on the issue as quickly as he can. Lawyers opposed to the extension are hopeful that could happen in the next few weeks in time for the term limits question to go on the ballot later this spring.

(Source: NY1)