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Commission weighs cost and timing of special election vs. regular 2026 ballot
Summary
Commissioners debated holding a special election in November 2025 (estimated cost ~$48k–$50k) versus placing items on the regular 2026 ballot; staff said most items could take effect in 2026 except the primary 50%+1 change.
A central operational question at the workshop was whether to hold a November 2025 special election (the committee recommended this) or wait for the 2026 regular election. Public commenters and several commissioners flagged the estimated cost (discussed in the meeting at roughly $48,000–$50,000) and worried about turnout and the expense of a stand-alone election.
Billings and the facilitator argued a special election would let the committee’s work take effect sooner rather than waiting four years; the city attorney said most proposed changes could instead take effect after a successful November 2026 vote and that only the primary majority rule (50%+1) requires special handling to affect primary timing. Supervisor Lisa Lewis confirmed both all-mail and polling-place special-election formats are options and that the commission would choose the format if it authorizes a special election.
