REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Presentation of Voter Research Survey Results for a November 2024 Ballot Measure
Report
COUNCIL PILLAR
Deliver and Enhance High Quality Efficient Services and Infrastructure
BACKGROUND
In November 2023, the City issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to retain consultant services to perform a variety of voter research activities. One of the activities was the design and implementation of a baseline survey instrument to identify community priorities and assess community support for a potential revenue measure for possible consideration on the November 2024 ballot.
In March 2024, Staff presented an overview of the community engagement efforts that will be conducted in the coming months in advance of the City Council action in July, to consider the placement of potential revenue measures on the November ballot. These efforts include an initial survey, community outreach, mailers and online communications, communication toolkit, and a second survey to help the team refine the scope of any proposed revenue measures and the associated education program to be used going forward.
The purpose of this report is to present an executive summary of the results of the baseline voter research information from the initial survey.
DISCUSSION
Methodology
A statistically valid sampling of 400 likely voters, including newly registered voters and those who have voted in at least one (1) of the past four (4) elections, was conducted during the time period April 1 through April 4, 2024. The survey was administered in four languages: English, Spanish, Chinese, and Vietnamese.
Topline Results
The consultants identified the following key takeaways from the survey:
1. Overall, Santa Clara voters have mixed opinions regarding the City’s direction with 42% believing things have gotten “off the wrong track” compared to 40% who believe things are “moving in the right direction”.
2. A solid majority of voters (56%) think additional investment in the City’s infrastructure is necessary.
3. The survey tested support for a $598 million dollar bond ($29 per $100K). At the outset of the survey, the measure received 59% voter support, with 31% voting no and 10% undecided. However, after receiving additional information about the need for a bond measure, yes voters rose to 67% with 33% indicating a definite yes vote.
4. The most popular areas for potential funding included: 1) street repairs; 2) repairs to stormwater drain infrastructure to prevent erosion and sinkholes; 3) fixing potholes; 4) making roaders safer for drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists; and, 4) upgrading 911 communications, police & fire facilities and enhancing emergency preparedness.
Members of the consultant team will attend the April 23, 2024 City Council meeting virtually to make a full presentation on the survey results and answer questions.
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 indirect physical change in the environment.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact associated with this report.
COORDINATION
This report has been coordinated with the City Attorney’s Office and the City Manager.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public contact was made by posting the Council agenda on the City’s official-notice bulletin board outside City Hall Council Chambers. A complete agenda packet is available on the City’s website and in the City Clerk’s Office at least 72 hours prior to a Regular Meeting and 24 hours prior to a Special Meeting. A hard copy of any agenda report may be requested by contacting the City Clerk’s Office at (408) 615-2220, email clerk@santaclaraca.gov <mailto:clerk@santaclaraca.gov> or at the public information desk at any City of Santa Clara public library.
RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
Provide initial feedback on survey results and note and file the report.
Staff
Reviewed by: Cynthia Bojorquez, Assistant City Manager/Acting Director of Parks and Recreation
Approved by: Jovan Grogan, City Manager