REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Adopt Positions on State and Local Ballot Measures for the November 3, 2026 Election
Report
BACKGROUND
This report provides the City Council an opportunity to consider positions on state and local measures appearing on the November 3, 2026 General Election ballot. The statewide ballot includes 14 measures: five legislative measures (Propositions 1–5) and nine citizen initiatives (Propositions 37–45). This report provides a summary of each measure, identifies applicable existing City policy, if any, and includes a staff recommended City position when appropriate.
Staff provides analysis and a position recommendation only for ballot measures that directly impact City business, defined as matters directly related to City service delivery or otherwise contributing to the City’s operational success.
State law prohibits the use of public funds to campaign for or against a ballot measure. However, the City Council may consider and adopt a position on a ballot measure at an open and public meeting where members of the public have an opportunity to express their views. Staff recommendations are based on applicable adopted City policies, and potential impacts to City services, operations, or finances.
EXISTING POLICY
Council Policy 7.4.16, Ballot Measure Positions: As soon as possible following the release of the Secretary of State’s Official Voter Information Guide or the Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters’ Voter Information Pamphlet, staff will present to Council a report reviewing proposed ballot measures. Staff provides analysis and a position recommendation for ballot measures that directly impact City business.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The action being considered does not constitute a “project” within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15378 (a) as it has no potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment, or a reasonably foreseeable...
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