PISMO BEACH CITY COUNCIL STAF REPOR
Agenda Item #12.A
Meetin Date: pril 21, 2026
TITLE:
Direction on Submitting a Ballot Measure to the Voters – Extending Mayoral Term from Two to Four Years
RECOMMENDATION:
Provide direction to staff on a possible ballot measure that would extend the length of the term of the office of Mayor from two years to four years.
DISCUSSION:
At the Special City Council meeting on February 6, 2026, the Council directed a future agenda item to allow for public discussion and input regarding the length of the term of the elective office of Mayor. During that meeting, the Council briefly considered placing a measure on the November 3, 2026, General Municipal Election ballot to change the term of the Mayor from two years to four years.
Additional information for consideration:
1. Pursuant to Government Code Section 34900 and Elections Code Section 9222, the City Council must adopt an ordinance to submit such a measure to the voters.
2. If the Council directs staff to proceed with preparing the measure, staff recommends that it be returned to the City Council for action at the same time the Council calls the election, in June.
3. If approved by voters, the change to a four-year mayoral term would take effect beginning with the 2028 General Municipal Election unless the Council provides alternative direction.
4. The ballot measure would require a simple majority of votes cast to pass.
Conclusion and Recommendation:
Staff recommends that the Council provide direction on whether to return with a future agenda item proposing a ballot measure for the November 3, 2026 election to change the term of the elective office of Mayor from two years to four years.
FISCAL IMPACT:
If the Council directs staff to proceed with this measure, the City will be required to reimburse San Luis Obispo County for additional election-related costs, which are expected to be minimal. Further analysis would be provided at the time the item is returned to the Council.
Submitted by: Silas Clarke, Assistant City Manager
City Manager Approval:
Council Agenda 4-21-2026 12.A-1