Title
Report regarding a resolution authorizing the acceptance of $4,387.14 in funding from San Mateo County Registration and Elections Division to support an Early Vote Center at the Main Library, Library | Parks and Recreation Center, for the November 3, 2026 Statewide General Election and amending the Library Department’s Fiscal Year 2026-27 Operating Budget via Budget Amendment Number 27.009. (Valerie Sommer, Library Director)
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RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution authorizing the acceptance of $4,387.14 in funding from San Mateo County Registration and Elections Division (SMCo Elections) to support an Early Vote Center at the Main Library, Library | Parks and Recreation Center, for the November 3, 2026 Statewide General Election and amending the Library Department’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27 Operating Budget via Budget Amendment Number 27.009.
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BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION
From October 5, 2026, through November 3, 2026, South San Francisco Main Library, Library | Parks and Recreation Center, second floor Community Room, will serve as a Vote Center for the upcoming November 3, 2026, Statewide General Election. Although San Mateo County shifted to all-mailed ballot elections for over a decade, Vote Centers are still needed to assist those residents with ballot issues or to complete the voting process. Traditional polling places have been replaced by Vote Centers, which are open for voting for an extended period, and which offer expanded voter services, including voter registration, multilingual assistance, and disabled access voting options. This will be the 15th election for which the Library, partnering with the City Clerk, provides Vote Center services. Accessible Vote Centers are an important factor in securing successful voter turnout. Funding will support library staff scheduled on site around regular library hours and Peninsula Library System Network setup costs.
FISCAL IMPACT
Funds received from SMCo Elections will be used to amend the Library Department’s current FY 2026-27 Operating Budget. Receipt of these funds does not commit the City to ongoing funding.
RELATIONSHIP TO CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES ACTION PLAN
Acceptance of this funding will contribute to City Council’s Priorities Action Plan under the major focus area “Welcoming and Connected Community” by supporting community engagement and providing a local voting site as a convenient option for voters.
CONCLUSION
Receipt of these funds will support the Early Vote Center at the Main Library, Library | Parks and Recreation Center, for the November 3, 2026 Statewide General Election. It is recommended that the City Council accept $4,387.14 in funding from SMCo Elections and amend the Library Department’s FY 2026-27 Operating Budget via Budget Amendment Number 27.009.