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SGS - ACTION ITEM: (1) Discussion of a Democracy Voucher Program and a Public Matching Funds Program and, if Desired, (2) Provide a Recommendation to Staff as Deemed Appropriate.

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Meeting Date: August 5, 2026

Contact Person/Dept.:                       Shelly Wolfberg/City Manager’s Office

Phone Number:  (310) 253-6000

Fiscal Impact:  Yes [ ]    No [X]                                          General Fund:  Yes [ ]     No [X]

Attachments:   Yes [ ]     No [X]   

Public Notification:   (E-Mail) Meetings and Agendas - Standing Governance Subcommittee (07/31/2026)  

Department Approval: Lea Eriksen (07/30/2026)      _____________________________________________________________________

RECOMMENDATION

Staff recommends the Standing Governance Subcommittee (1) discuss a Democracy Voucher Program and a Public Matching Funds Program and, if desired, (2) provide a recommendation to staff to bring a discussion item to the City Council as deemed appropriate.

BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION

At the April 1, 2026 Standing Governance Subcommittee Meeting, the Subcommittee discussed Democracy Vouchers and Public Matching Funds programs. Staff has determined that they need City Council direction to research these programs further, to analyze several factors for each of these programs, including cost, participation, verification processes, and legal considerations. The Subcommittee may make a recommendation to the full City Council to consider options for a Democracy Voucher Program and a Public Matching Funds Program. If approved by City Council, staff would return to the City Council with a detailed proposal and implementation plan.

Staff anticipates that it would require dedicated time to work on this effort, in order to perform a thorough analysis. Should the City Council direct further research and stakeholder engagement on the potential implementation of either of these programs, legal feasibility, administrative requirements, community interest, and cost could be considered.

FISCAL ANALYSIS

There is no fiscal impact to discuss this item or any recommendation by the Subcommittee.  Depending on the nature of the Subcommittee’s recommendations and subsequent action by the City Council, there may be associated costs.

recommended motion

MOTION

Staff recommends the Standing Governance Subcommittee discuss a Democracy Voucher Program and a Public Matching Funds Program and consider providing a recommendation to the City Council as deemed appropriate.