Albany Council hears staff briefing on implementing youth voting; cost and county capacity stall decision

Albany City Council on Feb. 2, 2026 reviewed staff’s introductory briefing on implementing a charter amendment that would allow 16- and 17-year-olds to vote in municipal and school district elections, but took no action.

Staff told the council that implementing the change depends on a finding that the Alameda County Registrar of Voters can accommodate youth electors “at a cost-effective price for the service” and that the city is awaiting the registrar’s timeline and cost estimate. The staff report said the county’s information-management software (DIMS) and other operational details are part of the estimate.

Council members emphasized cost uncertainty. Council member Jordan said the registrar’s office previously estimated about $19–$21 per registered voter but later billed Oakland and Berkeley far more, “over $150 per voter,” and asked that the county provide consistent, early cost estimates to help jurisdictions plan. Jordan also noted the county elections commission will review registrar cost-estimate practices.

Several members flagged timing and logistics: Albany’s ranked-choice, at-large system differs from district models in other cities, and the council will need more precise information on whether and how the county’s systems would handle Albany’s ballot type. Staff also noted the county registrar is in transition — the current registrar is retiring in March — which could affect estimates and timing.

No ordinance or resolution was introduced at the Feb. 2 meeting. Staff said they will bring additional information from the registrar back to the council when available.