Date:
August 18, 2026
29
To:
Board of Supervisors
Title
Requesting Presentations From County Consultants Contributing to Ad Hoc Subcommittee Research and the Development of Ballot Measures (Districts: All)
End
Overview
On June 25, 2026 (24), the Board of Supervisors, by a vote of 3 to 2, adopted a revised ordinance to place a proposed County Charter amendment ballot measure before County voters on November 3, 2026. During that same meeting, the Board also adopted a resolution, by a vote of 3 to 2, to submit a ballot measure to voters that would impose a new County-wide sales tax measure, expected to result in residents County-wide paying $400,000,000 to $450,000,000 in new taxes annually. Both of these ballot measures have the potential to fundamentally change the functions of County government. Therefore, it is critical that San Diego County residents have access to all relevant information regarding the development and analysis of these ballot measures, or similar ballot measures, so that they are able to make educated decisions this election season.
On May 23, 2025, the County entered into a contract with the Berkeley-based consulting firm Fairbank, Maslin, Maullin, Metz & Associates (FM3 Research) to work with County Supervisors to develop a County-wide survey, or baseline poll, to analyze County residents' priorities and preferences regarding revenue sources, budget allocations, fiscal trade-offs and service expectations. This initial contract of $49,000 was extended through January 8, 2029, and increased to a maximum compensation level of $250,000. Among the deliverables included in this contract, FM3 is required to provide a full written report with key takeaways and actionable insights and provide a formal presentation of the findings. The contract also requires FM3 to be available for one to two community report backs in the form of a webinar, town hall, or other public presentation to ensure public engagement.
Additionally, on January 9,...
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