What is Measure D? 

In March 2022, the Santa Clara City Council unanimously placed Measure D - the “District Council Elections” measure, on the ballot for local consideration. If approved by voters, Measure D would amend language in the City Charter to align with the current legally-approved, by-district election model in place since 2018.  Measure D is the only local measure on your June 7, 2022 ballot. 

Measure D Official Ballot Language:  

DISTRICT COUNCIL ELECTIONS. Shall the City Charter be amended to elect city council members by district, excepting the mayor, to establish six districts for the election of one council member to represent each district; and to establish a 30-day residency requirement for all elected officials? 

Measure D Resources

Impartial Analysis

Argument in Favor of Measure

Please note: no argument in opposition to Measure D was filed.  

Information About Measure D 

What is Measure D?  

Measure D is an update to the City Charter to reflect the City of Santa Clara district elections model already being utilized by the City as a result of the Court Judgment and Settlement Agreement in the matter Yumori-Kaku, et al. v. City of Santa Clara (case no. 17CV319862). If approved by Santa Clara voters, Measure D will revise the outdated portions of the charter to align with the current legally approved election model in place. 

Will Measure D affect the District Elections first put in place by the city in 2018? 

No. Measure D would not alter the election format put in place in 2018. The election model that candidates are currently participating in remains in place. Measure D is an update to the charter itself to conform with the current practice of by-district elections. 

Why is it necessary to consider Measure D at this time?  

This is a necessary technical update to bring the charter into alignment with the by-district election infrastructure approved in 2018. Alignment between the charter language and the existing election infrastructure will reduce any potential for conflict and misinterpretation moving forwards.  

Will District elections be reverted to at-large elections if Measure D is not approved?  

No, based on the court judgment and settlement, the district elections would remain in place. Should Measure D not be approved by voter, there would be a conflict between the City Charter and the City’s Election’s process which could lead to confusion. Measure D is an effort to ensure that local election rules and practices are aligned, clear and easy to understand as well as administered appropriately. 

How can I participate in the June election? 

All active registered voters will be mailed a ballot. Measure D is the only local measure on your June ballot. Visit the June 7, 2022 Special Election webpage for information on how to participate.