UNDERSTANDING THE VOTERS INITIATIVE PROCESS IN AMERICAN CANYON
California is unique in many ways, including giving residents the power to place new laws directly on the ballot through what’s called the voter initiative process.
If an idea gains enough public support, residents can bypass the traditional City Council process and take it directly to voters. In American Canyon, that means collecting signatures from at least 10% of registered voters, or roughly about 1,400 signatures, within 180 days. Unlike traditional representative process, where elected officials make policy decisions on behalf of residents, voter initiatives go directly to the ballot and are exempt from environmental review requirements.
The initiative process can be complicated and expensive, often requiring significant private funding and volunteer support.
Many initiatives begin the process but never gather enough signatures to qualify for the ballot. In just the last six months, we’ve seen three initiatives launched in our community, and so far, none have officially qualified.
Last fall, residents Fran Lemos, Jessie Corpus, and Richard Peterson proposed Measure L related to land uses on Green Island Road. That measure did not meet the May 12 qualification deadline and will not appear on the November 2026 ballot.
In April, Beth Marcus proposed Measure M related to the City’s planned roadway network. The deadline for that initiative to qualify for the March 2028 ballot is October 12.
There is also a countywide sales tax initiative being circulated by two Napa County residents. That proposal would direct tax revenue generated in American Canyon toward nonprofit corporations to complete various projects throughout Napa County. Information regarding that measure, including timing and ballot language, is still developing - you can find more information here.
It’s important for residents to know that the City is not sponsoring or managing any of these initiatives. As a Council, we generally do not take a position on initiatives unless they officially qualify for the ballot, and we’ve had the opportunity to fully review the issues. Any formal endorsement or opposition would require a public Council vote, although individual Council Members may express their own personal opinions.
Residents should also understand that initiative campaigns are political campaigns. Supporters and opponents are allowed to advocate for their positions, hire signature gatherers, and privately raise campaign funds. Campaign messaging is not legally required to be objective, truthful, or comprehensive, which is why residents are encouraged to review official information and consider multiple perspectives before signing petitions or voting. Public funds cannot be used for campaign purposes.
For the most current information regarding local initiatives and election timelines, residents are encouraged to visit the City’s Elections Central webpage.
Together in Service,
Mayor Pierre Washington
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