Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Supervisor David J. Canepa, District 5
Subject: Establishment of “Let San Mateo County Vote Week” to Enhance Voting and Civic Engagement
RECOMMENDATION:
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Adopt a resolution to establish “Let San Mateo County Vote Week” as the second week of October each year, beginning in 2024, to encourage voting and civic engagement across San Mateo County.
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BACKGROUND:
Voting is a cornerstone of democratic governance and essential for ensuring representation and accountability in government. However, despite significant constitutional advancements-including the Fourteenth, Fifteenth, Nineteenth, Twenty-Fourth, and Twenty-Sixth Amendments-barriers to voting persist, affecting various demographic groups unevenly.
Historically, the right to vote was limited and exclusionary. Today, voter turnout remains uneven, with certain groups such as Latinos, Asian-Americans, young voters, and foreign-born citizens exhibiting lower participation rates. In San Mateo County, while over half of registered voters participated in the 2020 primary election, disparities in voter engagement persist among different groups.
The County has made strides in improving access to voting through various services, yet the importance of continuous efforts to encourage participation cannot be overstated. Establishing a dedicated week to emphasize voting and civic engagement will reinforce the significance of this fundamental right and support efforts to eliminate barriers to participation.
DISCUSSION:
The proposed resolution establishes the second week of October as “Let San Mateo County Vote Week” to increase voter engagement and education. This initiative aligns with the County’s goal to enhance democratic involvement and honor the ongoing struggle for voting rights. By adopting this resolution, the Board will reinforce the importance of voting and support a more engaged electorate in San Mateo County.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None