REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Action on a Resolution (1) Calling and Giving Notice of a Special Municipal Election to be Held on November 3, 2026 in Conjunction with the City's General Municipal Election for a Vote on Two Ballot Measures that, if Passed, Would Amend the City Charter as Follows: (a) Implement a Comprehensive Update of the City Charter; and (b) Update the City's Public Works Procurement; (2) Requesting the Consolidation of Such Election with the Statewide General Election to be Held in Santa Clara County on November 3, 2026; (3) Directing the Office of the City Attorney to Prepare the Impartial Analyses for the Two Measures; and (4) Setting the Priorities and Schedule for Ballot Arguments; and Authorizing Other Necessary and Appropriate Actions
Report
BACKGROUND
Charter Project Origins and Purpose
Upon a recommendation from professional staff, the idea for a comprehensive review and update of the City Charter (now commonly referred to as the "Charter Project") was incorporated into the Governance and Ethics Committee Work Plan in early 2025. Staff's recommendation was based upon their professional assessment, along with feedback from the different departments responsible for implementing the Charter's terms, that a number of Charter provisions were ambiguous, out of date, not aligned with current City operations or best practices, and/or not aligned with current laws. With support from the Committee, the project concept was presented to the full City Council on July 15, 2025. Recognizing the potential benefits of the project, the Council directed staff to take the initial steps to form a Charter Review Committee for purposes of implementing the "Charter Project" (the Charter Project CRC). Council direction included terms for the CRC's composition, selection process and purposes. Staff advertised the availability of CRC positions and, with the City Clerk, implemented the CRC lottery selection and appointment process. On September 16, 2025,...
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