Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Election Date Change topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
San Fernando council approves first reading to move municipal elections to March/June cycle; debate centers on turnout and outside money
Summary
After a divided hearing and extensive public comment, the council voted 3‑2 to approve first reading of an ordinance moving San Fernando’s general municipal election date from November to the statewide March/June primary schedule beginning June 2, 2026.
The San Fernando City Council on Oct. 6 approved, on first reading, an ordinance to change the city's general municipal election date from November to the statewide primary election cycle that alternates between March and June of even‑numbered years, starting June 2, 2026. The council vote was 3‑2 after a lengthy public hearing that drew dozens of callers and in‑chamber speakers who offered both support and opposition.
City Clerk Julia Fritz summarized the state framework and cost estimate provided by the Los Angeles County Registrar: a consolidated June 2, 2026 election would cost the city roughly $74,953, compared with a roughly $40,000 estimate for a November consolidation. Staff noted a budget amendment would be brought forward if the ordinance is finalized.
Proponents argued the primary calendar gives grassroots challengers a better chance against outside spending that concentrates in large general elections; several callers and councilmembers urged the change to reduce the influence of large political expenditures. “Moving the election to the primary… actually gives the non‑big‑money candidates a shot,” Councilmember Victoria Garcia said during the hearing.
Opponents said moving from November would reduce turnout and weaken participation. Public commenters and Councilmember Mary Salodio warned turnout historically drops in off‑cycle primary months; speakers cited local turnout data showing much higher participation since the city’s shift to November in 2018.
During public testimony Steven Guillen urged the council to keep November, saying a move would “weaken our democracy by just reducing voter turnout” and cost about $75,000 while reaching fewer voters. Other callers and written correspondents made the opposite case, saying June primaries allow focused local contests and reduce national ballot “noise.”
Council discussion cited a mix of data, state law (SB 415) and local practice. The ordinance would shorten current council members’ terms by several months for those elected in November 2022 and 2024; staff warned of the need for a midyear budget amendment to cover the county’s election charge if the change is finalized. Councilmembers discussed procedural options such as returning the decision later if needed and adding transparency provisions.
On the roll call, Councilmembers Victoria Garcia, Joe Fajardo and Mayor Mary Mendoza voted yes; Councilmembers Patty Lopez and Vice Mayor Mary Salodio voted no. The vote approved first reading in title only; a second reading and final adoption would return to the council at a later meeting. Staff will prepare the ordinance for final hearing and a fiscal amendment, if the council chooses to proceed.
