Committee backs resolution to plan a special municipal election to coincide with statewide recall

The Rules Committee considered a resolution declaring the Board of Supervisors' intent to call a special municipal election to be consolidated with a prospective statewide recall election this fall.

Sponsor Supervisor Ronan said the statewide recall campaign for Governor Newsom met signature thresholds in April and that the city attorney had issued a March 24 memorandum explaining options for the "extremely unusual" situation. Ronan said the portential appointment of City Attorney Dennis Herrera to another post makes it important to plan now so voters can choose a successor without delay and the Department of Elections can prepare.

Department of Elections director John Arntz was present and had no questions for the committee. With no callers in the public queue, Chair Aaron Peskin moved to send the resolution to the full Board for a May hearing; the roll call recorded Supervisor Stephanie, Supervisor Chan and Chair Peskin voting "aye." The motion passed without objection.

Next steps: the resolution will be placed before the full Board for a scheduling decision and further consideration by the Department of Elections.