CITY OF COSTA MESA
FINANCE DEPARTMENT
Suggested Timeline to Place Measure on the November 3, 2026 Ballot:
• October 1, 2025: FIPAC takes action to create an ad hoc committee for two ballot measures (Hotel Tax and Business License Tax).
• November 2025: Potential FIPAC special meeting
• November 12, 2025: FIPAC ad hoc committees provide feedback on potential ballot measures.
• December 2, 2025: City Council provides direction for staff to explore placement of two ballot measures on the November 3, 2026 ballot; Hotel Tax (Transient Occupancy Tax) and Business License Tax.
• December 2025 to March 2026: Work with outside consultant to receive public input/polling.
• March/April 2026: Presentation to City Council.
• June/August 2026: City Council approves election resolutions calling for the November 3, 2026 election.
• June/August 2026: Suggested day for ballot measure to be approved to be placed on the November 3, 2026 ballot, approving ballot title and summary, directing City Attorney to prepare impartial analysis.
• June/August 2026: Last date to file direct arguments and impartial analysis with the City Clerk
• June/August 2026: Last date to file rebuttal arguments with the City Clerk. • August 2026: Absolute last date for City Clerk to deliver resolution placing a measure on the ballot to Registrar and request election consolidation. [Note:
highly suggested to file earlier]
• November 3, 2026: Election Day
• December 1, 2026: City Council accepts certification of the election results by the ROV (alternative December 8, 2026).
Attachment 1