Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: David J. Canepa, District 5
Subject: Resolution Urging Expansion of Outreach Efforts to Unhoused and Housing Unstable Voters in San Mateo County
RECOMMENDATION:
title
Adopt a resolution urging the County’s Chief Elections Officer to expand existing outreach efforts to unhoused and housing unstable voters in San Mateo County.
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BACKGROUND:
The County of San Mateo acknowledges the fundamental importance of civic engagement and the right to vote for all residents. However, there exists a significant population of unhoused individuals in San Mateo County facing unique voting-related challenges, such as barriers to accessing information about voter registration and the electoral process. As of September 30, 2023, statistics indicate that San Mateo County had over 1,800 unhoused individuals, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted outreach efforts. To address these disparities and promote inclusivity and equal participation in the democratic process, the County has adopted the 2024-2028 Election Administration Plan, which includes planned targeted outreach efforts to unhoused and housing unstable voters throughout San Mateo County.
DISCUSSION:
The resolution urges the County’s Chief Elections Officer to continue existing and planned additional outreach efforts tailored to the needs of unhoused and housing unstable voters. These efforts include the distribution of information about key election dates, voting locations, and registration requirements, as well as collaboration with local shelters, service providers, and community organizations to facilitate voter education sessions and registration assistance. Furthermore, the Chief Elections Officer is requested to explore additional potential innovative solutions to expand voting access for unhoused and housing unstable voters in San Mateo County.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None