Date:
August 18, 2026
14
To:
Board of Supervisors
Title
Consider Adoption of Board Policy on Polling and Community Surveys (Districts: All)
End
Overview
Polling and community surveys can be valuable tools to gauge public opinion on policy issues, understand community conditions and priorities, and inform planning and decision-making. When these activities are conducted through third-party consultants using public resources, it is important they be governed by clear standards that promote transparency, legal compliance, fiscal stewardship, and public accountability.
On April 21, 2026 (18), the San Diego County Board of Supervisors (Board) directed the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), in coordination with County Counsel, to develop a strategy and process governing the use of County funds for polling and community surveys conducted through third-party consultants. The Board also directed the CAO to return to the Board with a fiscal analysis of any proposed processes.
Upon review and analysis, a Board policy was prepared as the tool best suited to implement the direction provided by the Board. Today's action recommends that the Board consider the adoption of a Board Policy, County Policy on Polling and Community Surveys, to establish a consistent governance framework for oversight and transparency related to polling and community survey activities carried out through third-party contractors or consultants. As drafted, the Board Policy utilizes existing structures within the organization to accomplish the Board's intent and policy direction, and results in no fiscal impact to the organization.
Body
Recommendation by Chief Administrative Officer:
Consider the adoption of Board Policy A-70, County Policy on Polling and Community Surveys.
End
Equity Impact Statement
The draft policy is expected to advance equity by promoting transparency and accountability in how County-funded polling and community surveys are conducted and disclosed. Standardi...
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