ITEM: ACTION ITEMS

7. Consider Authorization of Funds for November 4, 2003 Vote

Meeting Date: May 29, 2003 Budgeted: Draft FY 2003-2004 Budget

Program/Line Item No.: 8050 - Election Expenses - MPWMD Chart of Accounts

Staff Contact: Arlene Tavani Cost Estimate: $25,000

General Counsel Approval: Yes

Committee Recommendation: On May 14, 2003, the Administrative Committee Recommended Approval of this Item on a Vote of 2 to1

CEQA Compliance: N/A

SUMMARY: The District will hold an election on the November 4, 2003 mail ballot for selection of elected directors for election divisions 3, 4, and 5.

The District is authorized by law to place matters before the electorate at any election. Matters may have either binding, or advisory effect, depending on the matter submitted.

The cost to conduct the election in divisions 3, 4, and 5 will be $55,739. The cost to conduct a District wide vote in addition to the election in the three voting divisions shall be an additional $25,000.

The Administrative Committee reviewed this item on May 14, 2003, and recommended approval of the $25,000 expenditure on a vote of 2 – 1.

RECOMMENDATION: At this time, the issue is one of fiscal review. The Board should review the cost of a district wide vote, and determine whether or not to recommend the expenditure of $25,000 to conduct the vote. Thereafter selection of the ballot question, if any, shall be placed on a future Board meeting agenda.

BACKGROUND: If the Board votes to approve funding for a District wide vote, discussion of specific ballot language will be placed on a future Board meeting agenda. The Board must approve ballot language and also approve a resolution placing the question before the voters. This action should be completed no later than the July Board meeting. The Board thereafter must authorize an analysis of the measure.

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