2024 Candidate Information Guide by rohnertparkcity

NOVEMBER 5, 2024

MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS

City of Rohnert Park Candidate Information Guide

The contents of this handbook and any legal interpretations contained herein are not to be relied upon either as being correct factually or as legal opinion. Reliance on the content without prior submission to and approval of your appropriate legal counsel is at the reader's risk.

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City Council

Susan Hollingsworth Adams Mayor

Gerard Giudice Vice Mayor

Jackie Elward

Samantha Rodriguez

Emily Sanborn Councilmembers

Marcela Piedra City Manager

Michelle Marchetta Kenyon City Attorney

Lee Burdick

Assistant City Attorney

Cindy Bagley Director of Community Services

Jamie Cannon Director of Human Resources

Vanessa Garrett Director of Public Works

Alicia Giudice Director of Development Services

Sylvia Lopez Cuevas City Clerk

Tim Mattos Public Safety Director

Betsy Howze

Interim Finance Director

July 15, 2024

Dear Candidate:

We appreciate your interest in running in the City of Rohnert Park’s Consolidated General Municipal Election to be held on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, to elect one City Councilmember from District 1, one City Councilmember from District 3 and one City Councilmember from District 4. This Candidate Information Guide has been prepared to make the process of running for office as simple as possible. It will assist in explaining various rules and regulations, however, it is not intended to be all-inclusive, and no one should rely solely on this Guide

As indicated on the Nomination Process Calendar provided in the Candidate’s Guidelines, the nomination period opens at 8:00 a.m. on July 15, 2024, and closes at 5:00 p.m. on August 9, 2024. If an incumbent does not file for re-election by 5:00 p.m. on August 9, 2024, the nomination period is extended to 5:00 p.m. on August 14, 2024, only for prospective candidates in the district for which an incumbent did not file. Please refer to the Nomination Process Calendar for other specific dates and deadlines. Filing your nomination papers early allows for ample review time to ensure legal requirements are met. You must schedule an appointment with the Clerk to file your nomination papers, which takes approximately 45 minutes.

Campaign laws, reporting, and Statement of Economic Interest forms can be complicated. The Candidate Information Guide includes helpful forms and resources, but you should also become familiar with the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) website at www.fppc.ca.gov and use their tools available. You may call the FPPC toll-free advice number 866-275-3772 or 916-322-5660 or email them at advice@fppc.ca.gov

Other valuable resources available to you are various state regulations that govern elections, which can be found on the California Legislative Information website at https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes.xhtml and Sonoma County Registrar of Voters at http://vote.sonoma-county.org/ or 707-565-6800.

If you have any questions or concerns about the information provided or about the nomination process, please do not hesitate to call the City Clerk’s Office at 707-588-2227 or email cityclerk@rpcity.org. We are open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. We will assist you in any way we can; however, the City Clerk is precluded by law from providing legal advice and you should direct any legal questions to private legal counsel.

Your decision to consider public service is commendable.

Sincerely,

Sylvia Lopez Cuevas City Clerk

All required candidate paperwork is required to be filed all at the same time. You may not submit paperwork intermittently.

This Candidate Handbook and Resource Guide is intended to provide general information about the nomination and election of candidates and DOES NOT have the force and effect of law, regulation or rule. This information is intended to provide general guidance only and not a substitute for the provisions of state and local law which it summarizes.

It is not the intent of the City of Rohnert Park to render legal advice. Accordingly, the guide is not a substitute for legal counsel for the individual, organization or candidate using it An attempt has been to make this summary accurate, but if there are any differences between this summary and the applicable provisions of state law, Elections Code or the Rohnert Park Municipal Code or duly adopted City Resolutions, the state and local law will prevail. Candidates and others using this information must bear full responsibility to make their own determinations as to all legal standards and duties and as to all factual matter contained herein

The City Clerk is precluded by law from providing legal advice; any legal questions should be directed to private legal counsel.

Election Date: Tuesday, November 5, 2024

Nomination Filing Period: Monday, July 15, 2024 through Friday, August 9, 2024

The nomination period is extended to 5:00 p m on August 14, 2024, only for prospective candidates in the district for which an incumbent did not file for re-election by 5:00 p.m. on August 9, 2024.

Nomination papers will be issued and filed by appointment only.

City Clerk’s Office Contact Information: (707) 588-2227 · cityclerk@rpcity.org · City Hall, 130 Avram Avenue, Rohnert Park, CA 94928.

City Councilmembers

Susan H. Adams, Mayor* (District 5)

Gerard Giudice, Vice Mayor (District 3)

Jackie Elward, Councilmember (District 4)

Samantha Rodriguez, Councilmember (District 1)

Emily Sanborn, Councilmember (District 2)

Term Expires

December 2026

December 2024

December 2026

Meeting Dates:

Second and fourth Tuesdays of each month, as well as other special meetings, as needed. Councilmembers also sit on various Boards and Commissions throughout Sonoma County and the Bay Area region, on behalf of the City of Rohnert Park

Mayor/Mayor Pro Tem: Each year in December at the Annual Reorganization Meeting, the City Council selects the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem from among its members. The Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem are appointed to serve a one-year term. The Mayor Pro Tem acts as Mayor in the absence of the Mayor.

ELIGIBILITY

In order to be eligible to hold office as a member of the Council, a person must be a U.S. citizen, 18 years of age on or before Election Day, and a registered voter of the City of Rohnert Park district for which they are running at the time nomination papers are issued for their candidacy and shall continue to reside in the district for which they are elected during the term of office (Government Code § 34882, 34904, 36502)

Please visit www.rpcity.org/city hall/administration/city clerk/city elections or click here to find your district.

A person is disqualified from holding any office upon conviction of designated crimes as specified in the California Constitution and laws of California (Government Code § 1021).

CANDIDATE RESIDENCY

Section 36502 (a) - Elections Code

The Elections Official will verify with the Sonoma County Register of Voters that the Candidate is a registered voter and resides within the City of Rohnert Park District they wish to represent If, during their term of office, they move their place of residence outside or cease to be an elector of the City district they were elected to represent, their office shall immediately become vacant.

OFFICES TO BE FILLED AND BENEFITS

Offices to be filled: Three Council seats: One (1) Member of the City Council from District 1, One (1) Member of the City Council from District 3, and One (1) Member of the City Council from District 4.

Term of Office: Each member will represent the voters in the district in which they are elected for 4 years. The term will expire in December 2028

Salary:

Benefits:

Current Salary = $484.06 per month. See Rohnert Park Municipal Code § 2.12 for more details.

Councilmembers are eligible for enrollment in City health insurance plans, deferred compensation, CalPERS, use of Sports Center, and Retirement Health Saving Account.

ELECTION CALENDAR – IMPORTANT DATES AND DEADLINES

The Nomination Period opens at 8:00 a.m. on July 15, 2024 and papers may be obtained from the Office of the City Clerk (E.C. 10220). August 9, 2024 is the last day to file Nomination Papers with the Office of the City Clerk (E C 10220; 10224) The papers must be filed by 5:00 p.m. on August 9, 2024.

The nomination period is extended to 5:00 p.m. on August 14, 2024, only for prospective candidates in the district for which an incumbent did not file for re-election by 5:00 p.m. on August 9, 2024.

A candidate may withdraw, but not change, the Candidate’s Statement up to 5:00 p.m. of the next workday after the close of the nomination period. (E.C. 13307)

If no one or only one person is nominated for an elected office, appointment to the elective office may be made as prescribed by Elections Code §10229

The complete Nomination Process Calendar can be found on the next page.

July 15, 2024

July 31, 2024

NOMINATION PROCESS CALENDAR NOVEMBER

5, 2024

CITY OF ROHNERT PARK GENERAL MUNICIPAL

Nominations Open - Papers may be obtained from the Office of the City Clerk (E.C. 10220)

Semi-Annual Campaign Statement Due. Filing includes all reportable items from the day after the closing date of the last statement filed, or January 1, if no previous statement has been filed, through June 30, 2024. (G.C. 84200)

August 9, 2024

August 14, 2024

Last Day to File Nomination Papers with the Office of the City Clerk (E.C. 10220; 10224). *Note: The nomination period is extended to 5:00 p.m. on August 14, 2024, only for prospective candidates in the district for which an incumbent did not file for re-election by 5:00 p.m. on August 9, 2024 (Elections Code 10225). A candidate may withdraw, but not change, the Candidate’s Statement up to 5:00p m of the next workday after the close of the nomination period (E C 13307)

Last Day to File Nomination Papers with the Office of the City Clerk for Extended Nomination Deadline* (E.C. 10225) *Note: The nomination period is extended to 5:00 p.m. on August 14, 2024, only for prospective candidates in the district for which an incumbent did not file for re-election by 5:00 p.m. on August 9, 2024 (Elections Code 10225). A candidate may withdraw, but not change, the Candidate’s Statement up to 5:00p.m. of the next workday after the close of the nomination period. (E.C. 13307)

August 15, 2024 Secretary of State to conduct randomized alphabet drawings to determine placement of candidates’ names on the ballot (E.C. 13112)

September 26, 2024 First Pre-Election Campaign Statement due. Filing includes all reportable items from July 1, 2024 through September 21, 2024. (G.C. 84200.8)

September 26, 2024 Target date to begin mailing County Voter Information Guides

October 7, 2024 Voting by mail opens; first day voters can pick up Vote-by-Mail ballots at the Registrar of Voters Office

October 21, 2024 Last day to register or re-register to vote (E.C. 2102, 2107)

October 24, 2024

October 29, 2024

November 1, 2024

Second Pre-Election Campaign Statement due. Filing includes all reportable items from September 22, 2024 through October 19, 2024. (G.C. 84200.8)

Last day to request Vote by Mail ballot by mail

Third Pre-Election Campaign Statement due (As required by Rohnert Park Municipal Code, Chapter 2.65.080, Campaign Finance Regulations - local campaign disclosure requirements). Filing includes all reportable items from October 20, 2024 through 11:59 pm, October 31, 2024

Within 24 Hours Contributions and Independent Expenditures due within 24 hours. Committees making independent expenditures totaling $1,000 or more to support or oppose other candidates or ballot measures

November 5, 2024

December 5, 2024

January 31, 2025

ELECTION DAY

Last day for County to certify Election Results to the City (E.C. 15372)

Semi-Annual Campaign Statement Due. Filing includes all reportable items from November 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024 (G.C. 84200). Unless the committee filed termination Forms 410 and 460 before December 31, 2024

Rohnert Park Municipal Code 2.64 relates to City Elections and establishes the following:

2.64.010 - Municipal elections.

The general municipal election of the city of Rohnert Park shall be held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of each even numbered year.

(Ord. 442 § 2, 1984: Ord. 393 §§ 1 (part) and 2 (part), 1981)

2.64.020 - Elected city officials affected by general election dates.

Those elected officials whose terms, prior to the adoption of this chapter would have expired no later than the fourth Tuesday after the date of the general municipal election which would have been held in June of even numbered years shall, instead, continue in their office until no later than the fourth Tuesday after the date of the general municipal election to be held in November of even numbered years.

(Ord. 442 § 2, 1984: Ord. 393 §§ 1 (part) and 2 (part), 1981)

2 64 010

2.64.030 - Operative date of this chapter.

This chapter requiring the general municipal election to be held on the same day as the statewide general election shall become operative upon its approval by the Sonoma County Board of supervisors.

(Ord. 442 § 2, 1984: Ord. 393 §§ 1 (part) and 2 (part), 1981)

Municipal Code 2 65

Rohnert Park Municipal Code 2.65 relates to Campaign Finance Regulations: Limits the amount any person may contribute to a candidate to no more than $500 during an election cycle. Campaign funds acquired in one city election may not be used in any other future city election. Requires a third pre-election campaign statement.

Please visit the hyperlink above to read the complete Rohnert Park Municipal Code 2.65.

Municipal Code 2 66 020

Rohnert Park Municipal Code 2.66.020 relates to Five City Council districts established in the City of Rohnert Park as well as the election sequencing.

On March 8, 2022 the City Council adopted Resolution 2022-032 adopting new district boundaries. Please refer to Tab 2 for more information.

Below are links to the complete text for Municipal Code Chapters:

2.64 City Elections

2.65 Campaign Finance Regulations

2.66 District Elections

2.67 Electronic Filing of Campaign Disclosure Statements and Statements of Economic Interests

NOMINATION FILING PERIOD

Section 10220 Elections Code

Monday, July 15, 2024, at 8:00 a.m., will be the first date and time that Nomination Papers will be available at the City Clerk's Office, 130 Avram Ave., Rohnert Park, California 94928.

Friday, August 9, 2024, at 5:00 p.m., will be the final date and time for filing any Nomination Papers; however, if an incumbent does not file for re-election by 5:00 p.m. on August 9, 2024, the nomination period is extended to 5:00 p.m. on August 14, 2024, only for prospective candidates in the district for which an incumbent did not file.

Nomination papers will be issued and filed by appointment only. Please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (707) 588-2227 or via email at cityclerk@rpcity.org to schedule an appointment.

WRITE-IN CANDIDATES

Section 8600 Elections Code

Write-In Candidates can pick up nomination documents starting Monday, September 9, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. will be the final date and time for filing any write-in nomination documents.

FILING FEE

Section 10228 Elections Code

The City Rohnert Park does not collect a filing fee. However, candidates are required to pay the printing and translation costs of the Candidate’s Statement for any languages other than Spanish. (Please see Official Filing Requirements for additional information regarding costs)

OFFICIAL FILING REQUIREMENTS

Below is a list of forms and documents that will be provided at the time the Official Nomination Forms are issued. The list indicates which forms are optional and which are required to be filed. With the exception of Form 501, all required forms and any optional forms you decide to file, must be submitted at the same time.

filed prior to filing paperwork)

Sections 10220,

10221, 10222

- Elections Code

This form is important and should be handled very carefully. It is recommended that candidates file as far in advance as possible of the deadline so that any deficiency in the papers may be found and cleared in time to qualify.

The first step to consider in completing your petition is to decide if you will personally be the circulator or if someone will circulate it for you. Remember, whoever circulates the petition must personally witness each person's signature. Also, if you have someone else circulate the petition for you, he/she must be 18 years of age or older and must complete the "Affidavit of Circulator". If the candidate chooses to personally be the circulator, the “Affidavit of Circulator” portion must be completed in the presence of the City Clerk at the time the candidate files their Nomination Paper. Do not sign it prior to that time.

The second step is to obtain the signatures. You will notice that the petition has 30 spaces for signatures. Although only 20 signatures are required, it is advisable to obtain 30. This will give you 10 extra signatures in case some of the first 20 signatures do not qualify. Signatures qualify if they are registered voters of the geographical area making up the City of Rohnert Park District in which you are qualified to run for office. Signatures and the residence address must match the information on the voter's registration card or affidavit on file at the Sonoma County Registrar of Voters Office. Please do not use ditto marks. Ensure names and addresses are written legibly. The signatures must be verified by the Sonoma County Registrar of Voters Office and if a name or address is not legible, verification may not be possible.

Signatures; Verifications; Residence Address

Section 105 Elections Code

For purposes of verifying signatures on any Nomination Paper, the Elections Official shall determine that the residence address on the petition is the same as the residence address on the affidavit of registration. If the addresses are different, the affected signature shall not be counted as valid.

Please refer to the next page for a Sample Form.

Sylvia Lopez Cuevas City Clerk

By: ___________________________

Date Issued: ____________________

NOMINATION PAPER

(Official Use Only)

We, the undersigned voters, hereby nominate _________________________________, candidate for the office of Name of Candidate

___________________________ to be voted on at the General Municipal Election to be held on the Name of Office and District Number

5th day of November, 2024, hereby assert as follows:

I am a resident of District ___ of the City of Rohnert Park in Sonoma County and reside at the address shown on this paper. I am a registered qualified voter. I am not at this time a signer of any other nomination paper of any other candidate for the above- named office, or in case there are several places to be filled in the above-named office have not signed more nomination papers than there are places to be filled. My residence is correctly set forth after my signature hereto:

State of California

County of Sonoma

AFFIDAVIT OF CIRCULATOR

(To be completed in circulator’s own hand)

I, __________________________________, solemnly swear (or affirm) all of the following:

1. That I am 18 years of age or older.

2. That my residence address, including street and number, is:

[If no street or number exists, a designation of my residence adequate to readily ascertain its location is:

3. That the signatures on this nomination paper were obtained between ______ , 2024 and _____ , 2024; that I circulated this petition and I saw the signatures on this section of the nomination papers being written; and that, to the best of my information and belief, each signature is the genuine signature of the person whose name it purports to be.

4. I certify (or declare) under the penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.

Executed by me at ________________________________________________, on _____________, 2024.

State of California

County of Sonoma

ss: } ss:

SIGNATURE OF PETITION CIRCULATOR

On _____________________, 2024 before me, ____________________Notary Public, personally appeared_____________________________________, who proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person(s) whose name(s) is/are subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that he/she/they executed the same in his/her/their authorized capacity(ies), and that by his/her/their signature(s) on the instrument the person(s), or the entity upon behalf of which the person(s) acted, executed the instrument.

I certify under PENALTY OF PERJURY under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing paragraph is true and correct.

WITNESS my hand and official seal.

Signature ______________________________ (Seal)

NOTE: A notary public or other officer completing this certificate verifies only the identity of the individual who signed the document to which this certificate is attached, and not the truthfulness, accuracy, or validity of that document.

WARNING: Every person acting on behalf of a candidate is guilty of a misdemeanor who deliberately fails to file at the proper time and in the proper place any nomination paper or declaration of candidacy in his/her possession which is entitled to be filed under the provisions of the Elections Code. (Elections Code §18202)

Public access to this document shall be limited to viewing the document only. The election official may not copy or distribute copies of documents that contain signatures of voters. (Elections Code §17100)

Section 13107 Elections Code

The Ballot Designation Worksheet is the word or group of words that will appear on the ballot under the candidate’s name, designating the principal profession, vocation, or occupation of the candidate. It must be completed or it will not be accepted and you will not be entitled to a ballot designation. This worksheet corresponds with the Affidavit of the Nominee on the Declaration of Candidacy. The City Clerk, as Elections Official, follows the Secretary of State Ballot Designation Regulations set forth in the California Administrative Code, Chapter 7 (commencing with section 20710) and Elections Code 13107. In the event the candidate fails to file a Ballot Designation Worksheet, no designation shall appear under the candidate’s name on the ballot.

Ballot Designations

On the ballot immediately under the name of each candidate, and not separated from the name by any line, may appear, at the option of the candidate, only one of the following designations:

Words designating the elective city, county, district, state, or federal office which the candidate holds at the time of filing the nomination documents to which they were elected by vote of the people.

The word “incumbent” if the candidate is a candidate for the same office which they hold at the time of filing the nomination papers and was elected to that office by a vote of the people.

No more than three words designating either the current principal professions, vocations, or occupations of the candidate, or the principal professions, vocations, or occupations of the candidate during the calendar year immediately preceding the filing of nomination documents.

3. The phrase “appointed incumbent” if the candidate holds an office by virtue of appointment, and the candidate is a candidate for election to the same office, or, if the candidate is a candidate for election to the same office or to some other office, the word “appointed” and the title of the office. In either instance, the candidate may not use the unmodified word “incumbent” or any words designating the office unmodified by the word “appointed.” However, the phrase “appointed incumbent” shall not be required of a candidate who seeks reelection to an office which he or she holds and to which he or she was appointed, as a nominated candidate, in lieu of an election, pursuant to Sections 5326 and 5328 of the Education Code or Section 7228, 7423, 7673, 10229, or 10515 of this code.

Unacceptable Ballot Designations

No election official shall accept a designation which: It would mislead the voter. 1.

It would suggest an evaluation of a candidate, such as outstanding, leading, expert, virtuous, or eminent. 2.

It abbreviates the word “retired” or places it following any word or words which it modifies.

It uses a word or prefix, such as “former” or “ex-,” which means a prior status. The only exception is the use of the word “retired.”

5. It uses a word or words referring to a racial, religious, or ethnic group.

It uses the name of any political party, whether or not it has qualified for the ballot.

6. It refers to any activity prohibited by law.

If, upon checking the nomination documents and the ballot designation worksheet, the elections official finds the designation to be in violation of any of the restrictions set forth in this section, the elections official shall notify the candidate by registered or certified mail return receipt requested, addressed to the mailing address provided on the candidate’s ballot designation worksheet. The candidate shall, within three days, excluding Saturday, Sunday, and state holidays, from the date he or she receives notice by registered or certified mail, or from the date the candidate receives actual notice of the violation, whichever occurs first, appear before the elections official and provide a designation that complies with this section.

In the event the candidate fails to provide an alternate designation, within the three-day period specified, a designation shall not appear after the candidate’s name.

No designation given by a candidate shall be changed by the candidate after the final date for filing Nomination Papers except as specifically requested by the election official under circumstances heretofore set forth.

A Ballot Designation Sample Form can be found on the next page and online here.

California Secretary of State BALLOT DESIGNATION WORKSHEET

November 5, 2024, General Election (Elections Code §§ 13107, 13107.3, 13107.5; California Code of Regulations § 20711)

This entire form must be completed, or it will not be accepted, and you will not be entitled to a ballot designation. DO NOT LEAVE ANY RESPONSE SPACES BLANK. If information requested is not applicable, please write “N/A” in the space provided, otherwise the information MUST be provided. UPON FILING, THIS WORKSHEET WILL BE A PUBLIC DOCUMENT.

Candidate Name: Office:

Candidate Information 1

Attorney or Other

Authorized Person Information 2

Home Address:

Mailing Address:

Business Address: Phone Number(s)

Attorney Name (or other person authorized to act on your behalf):

You may select as your ballot designation one of the following designations:

(a) Your current principal profession(s), vocation(s), or occupation(s) [maximum total of three words, separated by a slash (“/”)].

(b) The full title of the public office you currently occupy and to which you were elected.

(c) “Appointed [full title of public office]” if you currently serve by appointment in an elective public office and are seeking election to the same office or to some other office.

(d) “Incumbent” if you were elected (or, if you are a Superior Court Judge, you are a candidate for the same office that you hold) to your current public office and seek election to the same office.

(e) “Appointed Incumbent” if you were appointed to your current elective public office and seek election to the same office.

Proposed Ballot Designation(s):

Proposed Ballot Designation(s) 3

Alternate Ballot Designation(s) 1:

Alternate Ballot Designation(s) 2:

If your proposed ballot designation is pursuant to Elections Code § 13107(a)(3): The professions, vocations or occupations relied upon to support my proposed ballot designation(s) constitute my primary, main or leading professions, vocations or occupations. Initial

Translation of Proposed Designation: Gender specific translations will default to the masculine form for uniformity in translation unless you specify otherwise: ( ) Masculine ( ) Feminine

In the spaces provided on the next page(s):

(a) Describe why you believe you are entitled to use the proposed ballot designation

(b) If your proposed ballot designation contains one or more slashes (“/”) separating words in your ballot designation for separate principal profession(s), vocation(s), or occupation(s) (collectively known as “PVOs”), complete a justification section for each separate PVO

(c) Attach any documents or exhibits that you believe support your proposed ballot designation (Note: It is not necessary to provide copies of Certificates of Election if you are currently a seated member for a voter-nominated office).

(d) If using the title of an elective office, attach a copy of your certificate of election or appointment

(e) Any supporting documents will not be returned to you. Do not submit originals

It is your responsibility to justify your proposed ballot designation and to provide all requested details.

California Secretary of State BALLOT DESIGNATION WORKSHEET

November 5, 2024, General Election (Elections Code §§ 13107, 13107.3, 13107.5; California Code of Regulations § 20711)

Page 2

If your proposed ballot designation includes the word “volunteer,” indicate the title of your volunteer position and the name of the entity for which you volunteer along with a brief description of the type of volunteer work you do and the approximate amount of time involved. You may only use the ballot designation “community volunteer” if you volunteer for a 501(c)(3) charitable, educational, or religious organization, a governmental agency or an educational institution. You may not use “community volunteer” together with another designation.

If your proposed ballot designation contains one or more slashes (“/”) separating multiple principal profession(s), vocation(s), or occupation(s) (collectively known as “PVOs”), complete a justification section for each separate PVO

Justification for use of 1st PVO:

Justification for use of Proposed Ballot Designation(s)

If you are proposing alternate ballot designations, please provide justification for use of those on Page 3 4

Current or most recent job title:

Employer Name or Business:

Person who can verify this information:

Name: Phone

Justification for use of 2nd PVO:

Current or most recent job title:

Employer Name or Business:

Person who can verify this information:

Name:

Justification for use of 3rd PVO:

Phone Number(s):

Current or most recent job title:

Employer Name or Business:

Person who can verify this information:

Name: Phone Number(s):

Before signing below, answer/initial the following questions. Does your proposed ballot designation:

1) Use only a portion of the title of your current elected office?

2) Non-judicial candidates: Use only the word “Incumbent” for an elective office to which you were appointed?

3) Use more than three total words for your principal professions, vocations, or occupations?

4) Suggest an evaluation of you, such as outstanding, leading, expert, virtuous, or eminent?

5) Refer to a status (Veteran, Activist, Founder, Scholar), rather than a profession, vocation, or occupations?

6) Abbreviate the word “retired?

7) Place the word “retired” after the words it modifies? Example: Accountant, retired

8) Use a word or prefix (except “retired”) such as “former” or “ex-” to refer to a former profession, vocation, or occupation?

9) Use the word “retired” along with a current profession, vocation, or occupation? Example: Retired Firefighter/Teacher

10) Use the name of a political party or political body?

11) Refer to a racial, religious, or ethnic group?

12) Refer to any activity prohibited by law?

If the answer to any of these questions is “yes,” your proposed ballot designation is likely to be rejected.

Candidate’s Signature

Date Signed: Month/Day/Year For your reference, attached are Elections Code sections 13107, 13107.3, and 13107.5, and California Code of Regulations (CCR), title

You also may wish to consult CCR, title 2, sections, 20712-20719 (found at www.sos.ca.gov).

November 5, 2024, General Election (Elections Code §§ 13107, 13107.3, 13107.5; California Code of Regulations § 20711) Page 3

COMPLETE THIS PAGE ONLY IF one or more Alternate Ballot Designation(s) are provided. If this page is not applicable, please initial: .

Justification for use of 1st PVO:

Current or most recent job title:

Employer Name or Business:

Person who can verify this information:

Name:

Justification for use of 2nd PVO:

Justification for Alternate Ballot Designation(s) 1 A

Current or most recent job title:

Employer Name or Business:

Person who can verify this information:

Name:

Justification for use of 3rd PVO:

Current or most recent job title:

Employer Name or Business:

Person who can verify this information:

Number(s):

Date: End Date:

Justification for Alternate Ballot Designation(s) 2 B

Name: Phone Number(s):

Justification for use of 1st PVO:

Current or most recent job title: Start Date: End Date:

Employer Name or Business:

Person who can verify this information:

Name: Phone Number(s):

Justification for use of 2nd PVO:

Current or most recent job title: Start Date: End Date:

Employer Name or Business:

Person who can verify this information:

Name:

Justification for use of 3rd PVO:

Current or most recent job title:

Employer Name or Business:

Person who can verify this information:

Name:

Date: End Date:

California Secretary of State BALLOT DESIGNATION WORKSHEET

November 5, 2024, General Election (Elections Code §§ 13107, 13107.3, 13107.5; California Code of Regulations § 20711)

Page 4

For your reference, the relevant provisions of Elections Code section 13107 are reproduced below:

(a) With the exception of candidates for Justice of the State Supreme Court or court of appeal, immediately under the name of each candidate, and not separated from the name by any line, unless the designation made by the candidate pursuant to Section 8002.5 must be listed immediately below the name of the candidate pursuant to Section 13105, and in that case immediately under the designation, may appear at the option of the candidate only one of the following designations:

(1) Words designating the elective city, county, district, state, or federal office which the candidate holds at the time of filing the nomination documents to which the candidate was elected by vote of the people.

(2) The word “incumbent” if the candidate is a candidate for the same office which the candidate holds at the time of filing the nomination papers, and was elected to that office by a vote of the people. A candidate shall not use the word “incumbent” if the candidate was elected to their office in an at -large election and is a candidate in a district-based election.

(3) No more than three words designating either the current principal professions, vocations, or occupations of the candidate, or the principal professions, vocations, or occupations of the candidate during the calendar year immediately preceding the filing of nomination documents.

(4) The phrase “appointed incumbent” if the candidate holds an office by virtue of appointment, and the candidate is a candidate for election to the same office, or, if the candidate is a candidate for election to the same office or to some other office, the word “appointed” and the title of the office. In either instance, the candidate may not use the unmodified word “incumbent” or any words designating the office unmodified by the word “appointed.” However, the phrase “appointed incumbent” shall not be required of a candidate who seeks reelection to an office which the candidate holds and to which the candidate was appointed, as a nominated candidate, in lieu of an election, pursuant to Sections 5326 and 5328 of the Education Code or Section 7228, 7423, 7673, 10229, or 10515 of this code.

(b) (1) Except as specified in paragraph (2), for candidates for judicial office, immediately under the name of each candidate, and not separated from the name by any line, only one of the following designations may appear at the option of the candidate:

(A) Words designating the city, county, district, state, or federal office held by the candidate at the time of filing the nomination documents.

(B) The word “incumbent” if the candidate is a candidate for the same office that the candidate holds at the time of filing the nomination papers.

(C) No more than three words designating either the current principal professions, vocations, or occupations of the candidate, or the principal professions, vocations, or occupations of the candidate during the calendar year immediately preceding the filing of nomination documents.

(2) For a candidate for judicial office who is an active member of the State Bar employed by a city, county, district, state, or by the United States, the designation shall appear as one of the following:

(A) Words designating the actual job title, as defined by statute, charter, or other governing instrument.

(B) One of the following ballot designations: “Attorney,” “Attorney at Law,” “Lawyer,” or “Counselor at Law.” The designations “Attorney” and “Lawyer” may be used in combination with one other current principal profession, vocation, or occupation of the candidate, or the principal profession, vocation, or occupation of the candidat e during the calendar year immediately preceding the filing of nomination documents.

(3) A designation made pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (1) or paragraph (2) shall also contain relevant qualifiers, as follows:

(A) If the candidate is an official or employee of a city, the name of the city shall appear preceded by the words “City of.”

(B) If the candidate is an official or employee of a county, the name of the county shall appear preceded by the words “County of.”

(C) If the candidate is an official or employee of a city and county, the name of the city and county shall appear preceded by the words “City and County.”

(D) If the candidate performs quasi-judicial functions for a governmental agency, the full name of the agency shall be included.

(c) A candidate for superior court judge who is an active member of the State Bar and practices law as one of the candidate’s principal professions shall use one of the following ballot designations as the candidate’s ballot designation: “Attorney,” “Attorney at Law,” “Lawyer,” or “Counselor at Law.” The designations “Attorney” and “Lawyer” may be used in combination with one other current principal profession, vocation, or occupation of the candidate, or the principal profession, vocation, or occupation of the candidate during the calendar year immediately preceding the filing of nomination documents.

(d) For purposes of this section, all California geographical names shall be considered to be one word. Hyphenated words that appear in any generally available standard reference dictionary, published in the United States at any time within the 10 calendar years immediately preceding the election for which the words are counted, including a generally available standard reference dictionary published online, shall be considered as one word. Each part of all other hyphenated words shall be counted as a separate word.

(e) The Secretary of State and any other elections official shall not accept a designation of which any of the following would be true:

California Secretary of State BALLOT DESIGNATION WORKSHEET

November 5, 2024, General Election (Elections Code §§ 13107, 13107.3, 13107.5; California Code of Regulations § 20711) Page 5

(1) It would mislead the voter.

(2) It would suggest an evaluation of a candidate, such as outstanding, leading, expert, virtuous, or eminent.

(3) It abbreviates the word “retired” or places it following any word or words which it modifies.

(4) It uses a word or prefix, such as “former” or “ex-,” which means a prior status. The only exception is the use of the word “retired.”

(5) It uses the name of any political party, whether or not it has qualified for the ballot.

(6) It uses a word or words referring to a racial, religious, or ethnic group.

(7) It refers to any activity prohibited by law.

(f) If, upon checking the nomination documents and the ballot designation worksheet described in Section 13107.3, the elections official finds the designation to be in violation of any of the restrictions set forth in this section, the elections official shall notify the candidate by registered or certified mail return receipt requested, addressed to the mailing address provided on the candidate’s ballot designation worksheet.

(1) The candidate shall, within three days, excluding Saturday, Sunday, and state holidays, from the date the candidate receives notice by registered or certified mail, or from the date the candidate receives actual notice of the violation, whichever occurs first, appear before the elections official or, in the case of the Secretary of State, notify the Secretary of State by telephone, and provide a designation that complies with subdivision (a) or (b).

(2) If a candidate fails to provide a designation that complies with subdivision (a) or (b) within the three- day period specified in paragraph (1), a designation shall not appear after the candidate’s name.

(g) A designation given by a candidate shall not be changed by the candidate after the final date for filing nomination documents, except as specifically requested by the elections official as specified in subdivision (f) or as provided in subdivision (h). The elections official shall maintain a copy of the ballot designation worksheet for each candidate that appears on the ballot in the county for the same period of time as applied to nomination documents pursuant to Section 17100.

(h) The designation shall remain the same for all purposes of both primary and general elections, unless the candidate, at least 98 days before the general election, requests in writing a different designation which the candidate is entitled to use at the time of the request.

(i) In all cases, the words so used shall be printed in a manner consistent with the space requirements of Sections 13207 and 13211.

(j) If a foreign language translation of a candidate’s designation is required under the federal Voting Rights Act of 1965 (52 U.S.C. Sec. 10101 et seq.), as amended, to appear on the ballot in addition to the English language version, it shall be as short as possible, as consistent as is practicable with this section, and shall employ abbreviations and initials wherever possible in order to avoid undue length.

For your reference, Elections Code section 13107.3 is reproduced below:

(a) A candidate who submits a ballot designation pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 13107 shall file a ballot designation worksheet that supports the use of that ballot designation by the candidate, in a format prescribed by the Secretary of State.

(b) The ballot designation worksheet shall be filed with the elections official at the same time that the candidate files his or her declaration of candidacy.

(c) In the event that a candidate fails to file a ballot designation worksheet in accordance with subdivision (a), no designation shall appear under the candidate’s name on the ballot.

For your reference, Elections Code section 13107.5 is reproduced below:

(a) A candidate’s ballot designation as “community volunteer” shall constitute a valid principal vocation or occupation for purposes of subdivision (a) of Section 13107, if not otherwise in violation of any of the restrictions set forth in that section, and subject to the following conditions:

(1) A candidate’s community volunteer activities constitute his or her principal profession, vocation, or occupation.

(2) A candidate is not engaged concurrently in another principal profession, vocation, or occupation.

(3) A candidate may not use the designation of “community volunteer” in combination with any other principal profession, vocation, or occupation designation.

(b) The Secretary of State shall by regulation define what constitutes a community volunteer for purposes of this section.

California Secretary of State BALLOT DESIGNATION WORKSHEET

November 5, 2024, General Election (Elections Code §§ 13107, 13107.3, 13107.5; California Code of Regulations § 20711)

Page 6

For your reference, California Code of Regulations section 20711 is reproduced below:

(a) In order to facilitate review of a candidate's proposed ballot designation by the Secretary of State pursuant to Elections Code § 13107, the candidate shall submit, at the time of filing his or her proposed ballot designation on the Declaration of Candidacy, a completed Ballot Designation Worksheet on a form provided by the Secretary of State.

(b) All Ballot Designation Worksheets filed with the Office of the Secretary of State or the county elections officials pursuant to this section shall be public records and shall be available for inspection and copying at the public counter of the Elections Division of the Office of the Secretary of State, Fifth Floor, 1500 11th Street, Sacramento, California 95814, or at the office of the applicable county elections official.

(c) The Secretary of State shall provide a master copy or copies of the Ballot Designation Worksheet to all elections officials responsible for providing and accepting the nomination documents for candidates in elections for offices certified by the Secretary of State. The Ballot Designation Worksheet shall request that the candidate proposing the ballot designation provide the following information:

(1) The candidate's name, home, business and mailing addresses, telephone numbers, e- mail address, if available, and fax number;

(2) A designation of the office for which the candidate is seeking election;

(3) The name, home, business and mailing addresses, telephone numbers, e- mail address, if available, and fax number of the attorney representing the candidate or for any other person to be contacted in the event the Secretary of State requires further information regarding the proposed ballot designation;

(4) The proposed ballot designation submitted by the candidate;

(5) The candidate may submit one or more proposed alternate ballot designations ranked in order of the candidate's preference;

(6) A brief statement identifying the factual basis upon which the candidate claims the proposed ballot designation and each proposed alternate ballot designation, including the following:

(A) If the candidate holds elected office and is submitting his or her proposed ballot designation pursuant to Elections Code § 13107, subdivisions (a)(1) or (a)(2), the candidate shall indicate the elective office he or she currently occupies and may attach a copy of his or her Certificate of Election;

(B) If the candidate is a judicial officer and is submitting his or her proposed ballot designation pursuant to Elections Code § 13107, subdivisions (a)(1) or (a)(2), the candidate shall indicate the elective office he or she currently holds and may attach either (A) a copy of his or her Certificate of Election or (B) a copy of his or her commission or certificate of appointment, issued at the time the candidate was appointed to the judicial office which he or she currently occupies;

(C) If the candidate submits a ballot designation pursuant to Elections Code § 13107, subdivision (a)(3), the candidate shall indicate:

(i) The title of the position or positions which he or she claims supports the proposed ballot designation;

(ii) The dates during which the candidate held such position;

(iii) A description of the work he or she performs in the position;

(iv) The name of the candidate's business or employer;

(v) The name and telephone number of a person or persons who could verify such information; and

(vi) A statement that the professions, vocations or occupations relied upon to support the proposed ballot designation constitute the primary, main or leading professions, vocations or occupations of the candidate, in accordance with the definition of the term “principal” as set forth at § 20714, subdivision (b).

(D) If the candidate submits a ballot designation pursuant to Elections Code § 13107, subdivision (a)(4), the candidate shall indicate the date on which he or she was appointed to the office for which he or she is an appointed incumbent.

(d) The candidate may attach or append any supporting documents or other exhibits to his or her Ballot Designation Worksheet which he or she believes support his or her proposed ballot designation. Such attached documents or other exhibits shall be deemed to be incorporated by reference as part of the candidate's Ballot Designation Worksheet and shall be considered as such by the Secretary of State.

(e) If a candidate requests a change of his or her ballot designation pursuant to Elections Code § 13107(e), that request shall be accompanied by a Ballot Designation Worksheet.

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DECLARATION OF CANDIDACY

Sections 10223 - Elections Code

Affidavit of the Nominee: This section is a declaration stating that the candidate will accept the nomination and the office in the event of their election. In addition, the candidate must state their ballot designation. Note: Please refer to Ballot Designation Work Sheet section.

Oath of Candidate: This portion must be completed in the presence of the City Clerk at the time the candidate files their Nomination Paper. Do not sign it prior to that time.

A Declaration of Candidacy Sample Form can be found on the next page.

Sylvia Lopez Cuevas City Clerk

By: ___________________________

State of California

County of Sonoma

Declaration of Candidacy

For Council Member

(Election Code §§ 200, 201, 8040, 10226, 18203, Code of Civil Procedure §2015.5)

Contest ID:

Candidate ID: } ss:

AFFIDAVIT OF THE NOMINEE

(To be completed in candidate’s own hand)

(Official Use Only)

I, ______________________________________________, do hereby declare myself a candidate for election to the office of ________ District Number ______ to be voted for at the City of Rohnert Park General Municipal Election to be held November 5, 2024 and declare the following to be true:

I request my name and designation to appear on the official ballot as follows:

NAME AS IT APPEARS ON BALLOT (UPPERCASE)

DESIGNATION TO APPEAR BELOW NAME ON BALLOT (UPPER/LOWER CASE)

Note: A ballot designation is optional. If no ballot designation is requested, enter the word “NONE.”. I do NOT elect to file a statement of qualifications as permitted Election Code §§13307-13312.

Candidate: Sign here only if you do NOT choose to file a statement. Residence Address:

Phone (Day): Phone (Eve): FAX: Email:

I am aware that any person who files or submits for filing a declaration of candidacy knowing that it or any part of it has been made falsely is punishable by a fine or imprisonment, or both, as set forth in Elections Code §18203 The ballot designation is true and in conformance with Elections Code §§13107.

If elected, I will accept the office and not withdraw. I am at present an incumbent of the following public Office (if any): __________________________________. I am a registered voter in the jurisdiction and meet the statutory and constitutional qualifications for this office (including but not limited to citizenship and residency).

I certify (or declare) under the penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.

Executed by me at Rohnert Park, California, on _________ ____, 2024.

_______________________________________________

Signature of Candidate

Subscribed and sworn to (or affirmed) before me this ____ day of ____________, 2024, by __________________________, proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person(s) who appeared before me. (SEAL)

__________________________________________________ Notary Public (or other official) City Clerk FILED

OATH OF CANDIDATE

(Elections Code §200, California Constitution, Article XX, §3)

I, ___________________________________________ do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of California against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of California; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties upon which I am about to enter.

And I do further swear (or affirm) that I do not advocate, nor am I a member of any party or organization, political or otherwise, that now advocates the overthrow of the Government of the United States or of the State of California by force or violence or other unlawful means; that within the five years immediately preceding the taking of this oath (or affirmation) I have not been a member of any party or organization, political or otherwise, that advocated the overthrow of the Government of the United States or of the State of California by force or violence or other unlawful means except as follows: _________________ (If no affiliations, write in the words “No Exceptions”) _________ and that during such time as I hold the office of _________________ (name of office) District _____ I will not advocate nor become a member of any party or organization, political or otherwise, that advocates the overthrow of the Government of the United States or of the State of California by force or violence or other unlawful means.

Signature of Candidate

State of California

County of Sonoma

ss:

On _____________________ , 2022 before me, ____________________Notary Public, personally appeared_____________________________________, who proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person(s) whose name(s) is/are subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that he/she/they executed the same in his/her/their authorized capacity(ies), and that by his/her/their signature(s) on the instrument the person(s), or the entity upon behalf of which the person(s) acted, executed the instrument.

I certify under PENALTY OF PERJURY under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing paragraph is true and correct.

WITNESS my hand and official seal.

Signature ______________________________ (Seal)

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Each candidate may file a Candidate’s Statement of Qualifications of no more than 200 words. The Statement will be printed in the Voter’s Pamphlet and distributed to all registered voters with the sample ballot prior to the election. Statements must be filed at the same time the Nomination Paper is filed. This Statement may be withdrawn, but not changed, on or before 5:00 p.m. on the next working day after the close of the nomination period. The Statement may include the name, age, and occupation of the candidate and a description of the candidate’s education and qualifications. You are requested to type your statement on a sheet of paper.

Format of Statement of Qualifications

All statements should be typewritten in upper and lower case, with paragraphs clearly indicated. Your name, age and occupation are not included in the word count. If you leave your age or occupation blank, it will not be printed (we will not contact you to determine whether this was intentional). Your occupation is not subject to the same restrictions that apply to your ballot designation; however, reason must apply and occupations exceeding one line will be shortened. Statements are printed in BLOCK PARAGRAPH STYLE with spacing between paragraphs (no indentations). Words in all capitals, indentations, italics, underlines, stars, dots, etc , are prohibited Lists and enumerations will be wrapped as a single paragraph Multiple single sentence paragraphs that do not fit in the space allotted will be wrapped

Please note that this office will not be responsible for the accurate printing of any statement which must be reconfigured to comply with these guidelines Although we prefer that the statement be submitted on our form, we do accept statements that are typewritten (or computer generated) and attached to our form However, it is extremely important that all pertinent information be included We will not attempt to clarify information that is missing and/or unclear due to the attachment of your own form We suggest you to email your statement to the City Clerk on the same day that you are filing their paperwork so it may be sent to the Register of Voters on your behalf

Word Count Standard for Candidate's Statement

Section 9 - Elections Code

Punctuation is not counted 1

Each word shall be counted as one word except as specified in this section 2

All proper nouns/geographical names shall be considered as one word; for example, County of Sonoma or City of Rohnert Park = 1 word 3

Each abbreviation of a word, phrase, or expression shall be counted as one word i e S.S.U. 4

5. Dates shall be counted as one word 6. Digital numbers shall be counted as one word (e.g., 100). Numbers which are written out are counted as one word each (e.g., "one" shall be counted as one word and "one hundred" shall be counted as two words).

Hyphenated words that appear in any generally available standard reference dictionary published in the United States shall be counted as one word. Each part of all other hyphenated words shall be counted as a separate word.

7. Telephone numbers shall be counted as one word. 8.

Internet web site addresses shall be counted as one word. 9.

CANDIDATE’S STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS CONTINUED

Word Count Standard for Candidate's Statement

Statements must be typewritten in upper and lower case, with paragraphs clearly marked. Statements must be submitted on the appropriate form; however, statements may be prepared on a word processor and attached to the form, providing no pertinent information is covered by the attachment. Statements submitted in a format other than block paragraph will be reformatted as illustrated above. If age and/or occupation are left blank, none will be printed. Occupation is not restricted by ballot designation limitations; however, occupations exceeding one line will be shortened. Statement Must be Written in the First Person (e.g., "I am running…" not "Jane Doe is running…" or "He is running…").

Please proofread your statement. This office will not be responsible for the accurate printing of any re-formatted statement or handwritten statement, nor will it correct any misspellings or errors in grammar or punctuation.

Special formatting using ALL CAPITALS, italics, underlines, boldface type, ***stars***,!!!, dots…, etc., are prohibited.

This is a sample of a Candidate’s Statement of qualifications, as it will appear in the Voter’s Information Pamphlet.

The word count begins after the heading “Occupation”

Cost of Statements of Qualifications

The cost for printing and handling this Statement in English and Spanish is the responsibility of the City per Resolution 2024-039 If you choose to have your statement translated in any foreign language besides Spanish, then a deposit in the estimated amount of $750 00 will be required at the time the Statement is filed Candidates will be billed for additional costs or refunded any overpayment following the election (Elections Code Section 13307(c))

Elections Code Section 13311 makes the Candidate’s Statement confidential until the close of nominations. The purpose of confidentiality is to prevent candidates from writing what amounts to a rebuttal. The City Clerk will not release the statement to the media until the expiration of the filing deadline. Pursuant to Elections Code 13313, Candidate Statements of Qualifications will be available for public examination for a period of 10 (ten) calendar days immediately following the close of the nomination period.

See the next several pages for important additional information to be used in completing your Candidate Statement including a blank Candidate’s Statement of Qualifications and Requirements for Preparing Candidate's Statement of Qualifications.

CANDIDATE’S STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS

(INSTRUCTIONS AND STATEMENT OF WITHDRAWAL ON THE REVERSE SIDE OF THIS FORM)

The governing body of your jurisdiction has determined that statements shall be limited to 200 words; the ( candidate / jurisdiction ) shall bear the cost of the statements and payment shall be required ( prior to / after ) the election. (Payments required in advance are to be made directly to the jurisdiction. Proof of payment will be required at the time the statement is filed) The estimated cost of printing a 200 word statement for the office is between $__________ and $__________.

Estimates are based upon two candidates sharing the cost of a single page. If the number of candidate statements submitted is not evenly divisible by two, and the statement cannot be printed with any others, the run charges and set up fees increase. The charges are prorated among the candidates submitting statements for a particular contest.

I hereby state that I prepared the following statement for printing and distribution in the County Voter Information Guide I understand that per federal and state law requirements, my statement will be printed in English and Spanish.

DATE: ____________________

NAME:

CANDIDATE SIGNATURE: ___

AGE: If left blank will not be printed OCCUPATION:

Not subject to the ballot designation limitations – if left blank will not be printed STATEMENT/WORD COUNT BEGINS HERE:

CANDIDATE’S STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS

Each candidate for elective office in any local agency, city, county or dist rict may prepare a statement for mailing with County Voter Information Guides on a form provided by the Registrar of Voters. The statement may include the name, age and occupation of the candidate and a brief description of no more than 200 words (unless increased to 400 words by the governing body), written in the first person (i.e. , “I am running…” not “She is running…” or “Jane Doe is running…”) of the candidate’s own education and qualifications. The statement shall n ot include the party preference of the candidate, nor membership or activity in partisan political organizations. The statement shall be filed in the office of the el ections official when the candidate’s nomination papers are returned for filing i f it is for a primary election or for an e lection for offices for which there is no primary. The statement shall be filed in the office of the elections official no later than the 88 th day before the election if it is for an election for which nomination papers are not required to be filed. Once filed, a statement may not be changed; however, the statement may be withdrawn during the period for filing nomination papers and until 5 p.m. of the next working day after the close of the nomination period.

In addition to the restrictions set forth above, any candidate’s statement submitt ed pursuant to Section 13307 shall be limited to a recitation of the candidate’s own personal background and qualifications , and shall not in any way make reference to other candidates for that office or to another candidate’s qualifications, character, or activities. The elections official shall not cause to be printed or circulated any sta tement which the elections official determines is not so limited or which includes any such references.

Before the nominating period opens, the local agency for that election shall determine whether a charge shall be levied against that candidate for the candidate’s statement sent to each voter. This decision shall not be revoked or modified after the seventh day prior to the opening of the nominating period. The local agency may estimate the total cost of printing, handling, translating and mailing the candidates’ statemen ts and may require that each candidate filing a statement pay in advance to the local agency his or her estimat ed pro rata share as a condition of having his or her statement printed. A written statement of the regulation with respect to charges for handling, packaging and mailing shall be provided at the ti me the nomination papers are picked up. For these purpos es, the board of supervisors shall be deemed the governing body of judicial elections.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARING YOUR STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS

PROOFREAD YOUR STATEMENT WE WILL NOT CORRECT SPELLING, GRAMMAR, OR PUNCTUATION All statements should be typewritten in upper and lower case, with paragraphs clearly indicated. Your name, age and occupation are not included in the word count. If you leave your age or occupation blank, it will not be printed (we will not contact you to determine whether this was intentional). Your occupation is not subject to the same restrictions that apply to your ballot designation ; however, reason must apply and occupations exceeding one line will be shortened. Statements are printed in BLOCK PARAGRAPH STYLE with spacing between paragraphs (no indentations). Words in all capitals, indentations, italics, underlines, stars, dots, etc., are prohibited. Lists and enumerations will be wrapped as a single paragraph. Multiple single sentence paragraphs that do n ot fit in the space allotted will be wrapped. This office will not be responsible for the accurate printing of any statement which must be reconfigured to comply with thes e guidelines Although we prefer that the statement be submitted on our for m, we do accept statements that are typewritten (or computer generated) and attached to our form. However, it is extremely important that all pertinent information be included. We will not attempt to clarify information that is missing and/or unclear due to the attachment of y our own form.

1) Punctuation is not counted.

WORD COUNT STANDARDS

2) Each word shall be counted as one word except as specified.

3) All proper nouns/geographical names shall be counted as one word. (i.e., “City and County of San Francisco” or “Rincon Valley Union School District” shall be counted as one word).

4) Each abbreviation for a word, phrase, or expression shall be counted as one word; (i.e., S.R.J.C.).

5) Hyphenated words that appear in any generally available dictionary shall be counted as one word. Each part of all other hyphenated words shall be counted as a separate word.

6) Dates shall be counted as one word.

7) Digital numbers shall be counted as one word (i.e., 100). Numbers which are written out are counted as one word each (i.e., “one” shall be counted as one word and “one hundred” shall be counted as two words).

8) Telephone numbers shall be counted as one word. 9) Internet web site addresses shall be counted as one word.

ESTIMATED COSTS OF STATEMENTS OF QUALIFICATIONS

Statements of Qualifications are optional an d, unless otherwise determined by the governing body, are printed at the expense of the candidate. Candidates who are required to prepay the estimated costs will either be billed for the additional costs or refunded any over payment following the election. Estimated costs for Statements of Qualifications are based o n the printer's price list, set -up fees and the number of registered voters within the jurisdiction. Estimates are for statements not exceeding 200 words. Final costs will be determined by the number of candidate statements, including English and Spanish that are submitted for an individual office. If the number of candidate statements submitted is not evenly divisible by two, and the statement cannot be printed with any others, the run charges and set up fees are increased. These charges are prorated among the candidates for a particular contest. Candidates are required to submit a check with “not to exceed” the highest possible cost for 1, written under the amount line, (Elections Code §13307(c)). All checks will be held until after the final deadline to withdraw a candidate statement.

S:\ROV\Election Data\Forms-Form Letters\Nomination Forms\Nomination Forms\Statement of Qualifications\SOQ form LOCAL 12.17. with estimate explanation.doc

STATEMENT OF WITHDRAWAL

In the event there is no opposition for this contest, please do not print this statement.

DATE: ___________________ CANDIDATE SIGNATURE: __________________

I hereby withdraw my Statement of Qualifications pursuant to Elections Code Section 13307(a)(3). Statements may be withdrawn until 5:00 p.m. on the next working day following the close of the nomination period (extended nominations if a pplicable).

DATE: ___________________ CANDIDATE SIGNATURE: _______________________________________________________

https://sonomacounty.ca.gov/administrative-support-and-fiscal-services/clerk-recorder-assessor-registrar-of-voters/registrar-of-voters/elections/campaign-guide/statements-of-qualifications#printed

It is the responsibility of the district to collect the cost of Statements of Qualifications from the candidates whether payment in advance or payment after the fact is required.

If the district decides to bill the candidate after the election, the information below will not apply.

If advance payment is required by your district, candidates must present a receipt from the district at the time the Statement of Qualifications is filed with the Registrar of Voters office. The payment range is determined by whether the candidate is requesting a statement be printed in English only or in English & Spanish. The candidate should write a check “not to exceed” the highest in the range in the memo area

PAY TO THE ORDER OF: “The District” in which you are applying

On the Estimated Cost of Statements of Qualifications list , you will see a series of estimates to the right of your districts name. If the candidate request an English only statement, use the figure corresponding to the “English only” row and “1 Candidate Statement per page” column to determine what the “not to exceed” amount should be. If the candidate request an English and Spanish statement, use the figure corresponding to the “English & Spanish” row and the “2 Candidate Statements Per page” column to determine what the “not to exceed” amount should be.

After the close of nominations, when the exact number of candidates purchasing statements in your jurisdiction has been determined, our Accounting Division will contact the district with the exact cost of the statement(s).

When payment is required, checks and refunds are handled by your local district.

*Multi-County district are advised that the estimated costs provided in the mailing reflect ONLY the Sonoma County portion of the cost.

For Example: If you are running for US Representative 2nd District and want to do an ENGLISH only statement the amount would $3,459.

If you want to do an English & Spanish statement the amount would be $3,558.

This is the amount you will put in the memo “NOT to exceed __________”

DECLARATION OF CANDIDACY

Sections 20440 - Elections Code

There are basic principles of decency, honesty, and fair play which every candidate for public office in the State of California has a moral obligation to observe and uphold in order that, after vigorously contested but fairly conducted campaigns, our citizens may exercise their constitutional right to a free and untrammeled choice and the will of the people may be fully and clearly expressed on the issues.

The Elections Code (Section 20440) requires that City Clerks/Elections Officials provide a blank form of the code and a copy of Chapter 5 of Division 20. In endorsing this Code, you pledge to conduct your campaign in a fair and honest manner. Endorsement of the Code is voluntary and is not a requirement. If you choose to sign the Code, it will be on file in the City Clerk’s Office and available for public inspection. Please see the next page for more information.

State of California

ELECTIONS CODE

Section 20440

20440.At the time an individual is issued his or her declaration of candidacy, nomination papers, or any other paper evidencing an intention to be a candidate for public office, the elections official shall give the individual a blank form of the code and a copy of this chapter.The elections official shall inform each candidate for public office that subscription to the code is voluntary.

In the case of a committee making an independent expenditure, as deﬁned in Section 82031 of the Government Code, the Secretary of State shall provide a blank form and a copy of this chapter to the individual ﬁling, in accordance with Title 9 (commencing with Section 81000) of the Government Code, an initial campaign statement on behalf of the committee.

The text of the code shall read, as follows:

“CODE OF FAIR CAMPAIGN PRACTICES

There are basic principles of decency, honesty, and fair play which every candidate for public ofﬁce in the State of California has a moral obligation to observe and uphold in order that, after vigorously contested but fairly conducted campaigns, our citizens may exercise their constitutional right to a free and untrammeled choice and the will of the people may be fully and clearly expressed on the issues.

THEREFORE:

(1) I SHALL CONDUCT my campaign openly and publicly, discussing the issues as I see them, presenting my record and policies with sincerity and frankness, and criticizing without fear or favor the record and policies of my opponents or political parties that merit this criticism.

(2) I SHALL NOT USE OR PERMIT the use of character defamation, whispering campaigns, libel, slander, or scurrilous attacks on any candidate or his or her personal or family life.

(3) I SHALL NOT USE OR PERMIT any appeal to negative prejudice based on a candidate’s actual or perceived race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, marital status, age, sexual orientation, sex, including gender identity, or any other characteristic set forth in Section 12940 of the Government Code, or association with another person who has any of the actual or perceived characteristics set forth in Section 12940 of the Government Code.

(4) I SHALL NOT USE OR PERMIT any dishonest or unethical practice that tends to corrupt or undermine our American system of free elections, or that hampers

or prevents the full and free expression of the will of the voters including acts intended to hinder or prevent any eligible person from registering to vote, enrolling to vote, or voting.

(5) I SHALL NOT coerce election help or campaign contributions for myself or for any other candidate from my employees.

(6) I SHALL IMMEDIATELYAND PUBLICLY REPUDIATE support deriving from any individual or group that resorts, on behalf of my candidacy or in opposition to that of my opponent, to the methods and tactics that I condemn. I shall accept responsibility to take ﬁrm action against any subordinate who violates any provision of this code or the laws governing elections.

(7) I SHALL DEFEND AND UPHOLD the right of every qualiﬁed American voter to full and equal participation in the electoral process.

I, the undersigned, candidate for election to public ofﬁce in the State of California or treasurer or chairperson of a committee making any independent expenditures, hereby voluntarily endorse, subscribe to, and solemnly pledge myself to conduct my campaign in accordance with the above principles and practices.”

Signature Date

(Amended by Stats. 2006, Ch. 551, Sec. 2. Effective January 1, 2007.)

(Elections Code § 20440)

THEREFORE:

(2) I SHALL NOT USE OR PERMIT the use of character defamation, whispering campaigns, libel, slander, or scurrilous attacks on any candidate or his or her personal or family life.

(4) I SHALL NOT USE OR PERMIT any dishonest or unethical practice that tends to corrupt or undermine our American system of free elections, or that hampers or prevents the full and free expression of the will of the voters including acts intended to hinder or prevent any eligible person from registering to vote, enrolling to vote, or voting.

(5) I SHALL NOT coerce election help or campaign contributions for myself or for any other candidate from my employees.

(6) I SHALL IMMEDIATELY AND PUBLICLY REPUDIATE support deriving from any individual or group that resorts, on behalf of my candidacy or in opposition to that of my opponent, to the methods and tactics that I condemn. I shall accept responsibility to take firm action against any subordinate who violates any provision of this code or the laws governing elections.

(7) I SHALL DEFEND AND UPHOLD the right of every qualified American voter to full and equal participation in the electoral process.

I, the undersigned, candidate for election to public office in the State of California or treasurer or chairperson of a committee making any independent expenditures, hereby voluntarily endorse, subscribe to, and solemnly pledge myself to conduct my campaign in accordance with the above principles and practices.

Print Name Signature

Date Office

CANDIDATE BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION FORM

This optional form is to be completed at the candidate’s discretion and will be kept on file in the City Clerk’s Office. The information will be provided to the public and/or news media upon request. A copy is included with your Nomination Packet.

RELEASE OF PERSONAL INFORMATION FORM

This optional form is to be completed at the candidate’s discretion and will be kept on file in the City Clerk’s Office The information will be provided to the public and/or news media upon request A copy is included with your Nomination Packet

FAIR POLITICAL PRACTICES COMMISSION FORMS

Candidate Statement of Economic Interest (Form 700) must be filed with the Nomination Papers.

Candidate Intention Statement (Form 501) must be filed before you solicit or receive any contributions or before you make expenditures from personal funds on behalf of your candidacy, and is not necessarily filed at same time as nomination papers.

For more information, refer to the Fair Political Practices Commission section on Page 12 of this guide.

FILING FEE

Section 10224 Elections Code

Once you have obtained all your signatures, you must file the Nomination Papers with the City Clerk. Please note that all election papers (Nomination Paper, Ballot Designation Worksheet, Declaration of Candidacy, Candidate Statement, and Statement of Economic Interest (Form 700), etc.) must be filed at the same time. Please refer to the Checklist for Filing (Included in the “FORMS” blue envelope provided to you at the time your nomination papers were issued).

Filing All Nomination Papers shall be filed with the City Clerk during regular business hours, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, but not later than 5:00 p.m. on August 9, 2024. Appointments are required. Please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (707) 588-2227 or via email at cityclerk@rpcity.org to schedule an appointment.

FAIR POLITICAL PRACTICES COMMISSION (FPPC)

The Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) is a five-member independent, nonpartisan commission that has primary responsibility for the impartial and effective administration of the Political Reform Act. The FPPC mandates the filing requirements for candidates.

Appropriate information manuals, addendums, and forms will be provided to each candidate. Copies of the Political Reform Act, manuals, additional forms, and other helpful information may be obtained by contacting the FPPC. The FPPC website will connect you with valuable tools.

General Information:

1-916-322-5660

http://www.fppc.ca.gov/

Tip: Review the FPPC website to become familiar with the resources available (including training, additional information on disclosure requirements, advertising regulations, etc.).

FPPC Toll-Free

1-866-ASK-FPPC (1-866-275-3772)

Monday – Thursday 9 am to 11:30 am advice@fppc.ca.gov

Gift Tracking Mobile Application

FPPC has created and launched a gift tracking app for mobile devices. The app helps filers track gifts they receive in a calendar year and provides a quick and easy way to upload the information to Form 700. The data is not collected electronically; it is fully stored on the phone.

FILING SCHEDULE FOR LOCAL OFFICE

The filing schedule provides deadlines, period covered, the form to use, and notes regarding filing requirements

It is your responsibility to become familiar with the filing requirements and request forms from this office as you need them. You will be fined by this office and/or the FPPC if filing deadlines are not met.

Completed campaign forms are public documents and they are available for public inspection

Please visit this link to review the Filing Schedule

Note: Ordinance No 967 requires you file your campaign statements and statements of economic interests electronically To file your campaign statements visit https://www southtechhosting com/RohnertParkCity/eCampaign/

FAQS: CAMPAIGN ACTIVITY AND FAST FACTS

The FAQs are selected from questions people frequently ask the FPPC about campaignrelated activities. Also included are some Fast Facts from the FPPC on how to get started for candidates spending $2,000 or more.

FAQS regarding Campaign Activity can be found here.

STATEMENT OF ECONOMIC INTEREST (FORM 700)

Every elected official and public employee who makes or influences governmental decisions is required to submit a Statement of Economic Interest, also known as the Form 700. The Form 700 provides transparency and ensures accountability in two ways:

It provides necessary information to the public about an official’s personal financial interests to ensure that officials are making decisions in the best interest of the public and not enhancing their personal finances.

It serves as a reminder to the public official of potential conflicts of interest so the official can abstain from making or participating in governmental decisions that are deemed conflicts of interest.

When you file your Nomination Paper, you will be required to complete a Form 700. All Forms 700’s for any city office are filed with the City Clerk and are forwarded to the Fair Political Practices Commission in accordance with Political Reform Act of 1974.

FAQS regarding the Form 700 can be found here.

CANDIDATE INTENTION (FORM 501)

State and local candidates and officeholders who intend to raise or spend campaign funds must file with the City Clerk a Form 501 (Candidate Intention) before soliciting or receiving any contributions (including loans) or making expenditures from personal funds. If you do not plan to raise or spend any money, including personal funds, you do not need to file this form. Please refer to the Campaign Disclosure Manual 2 for instructions on completing the form.

STATEMENT OF ORGANIZATION (FORM 410)

Form 410 must be filed by all candidates and "recipient committees" who have received $2,000 or more in contributions (including the candidate's personal funds) during a calendar year

The Form 410 must be filed with the Secretary of State include a payment of $50 made payable to the Secretary of State within 10 days of receiving $2,000 in contributions The Secretary of State will issue an identification number to the committee The identification number is to be included on all campaign disclosure forms If any of the information on a Statement of Organization changes, the committee must file an amendment to the Statement within 10 days of the change Please refer to the Campaign Disclosure Manual 2 for instructions on completing the form.

STATEMENT OF ORGANIZATION (FORM 410)

There are special requirements for committees which qualify (i.e., receive $2,000) during the 90 days prior to an election in which the committee would otherwise be required to file pre election statements and for committees, which must amend certain information contained on a Statement of Organization during the 90 days before an election.

If any of the information on a Statement of Organization changes, the committee must file an amendment within 10 days of the change. Please see Form 410 for special requirements during the 16-day period prior to the election.

CANDIDATE CAMPAIGN STATEMENT - SHORT FORM AND SUPPLEMENT (FORM 470)

WHO FILES

Officeholders or Candidates who:

do not have a controlled committee

do not anticipate receiving contributions totaling $2,000 or more in the calendar year

do not anticipate spending $2,000 or more in a calendar year

If an officeholder or candidate files the Form 470, for an election year and later receives contributions totaling $2,000 or more or makes expenditures totaling $2,000 or more during the same calendar year, the officeholder or candidate must send a written notice within 48 hours.

Use the attached Form 470 Supplement or follow the instructions below for preparing the notice. See Manual 2, Chapter 4 for additional required filings.

WHEN TO FILE

File at the same time Nomination Papers (Declaration of Candidacy) are filed or as a first pre-election statement in connection with an election, covering the year of the election.

WHERE TO FILE

Filed with the City Clerk.

CAMPAIGN

WHO FILES

Candidates, Officeholders and their Controlled Committees who will spend or raise $2,000 or more

Primarily Formed Ballot Measure Committees

Primarily Formed Candidate/Officeholder Committees

General Purpose Committees

WHEN TO FILE

Please see the Filing Schedule for Local Office. Please note, the City of Rohnert Park requires a 3rd pre-election statement covering October 20, 2024 through 11:59 pm, October 31, 2024, which is due November 1, 2024.

WHERE TO FILE

All campaign statements are filed with the City Clerk.

**Penalties may be imposed on late filings.

A blank Form 460 can be found here.

24-HOUR CONTRIBUTION REPORT (FORM 497)

Form 497 24-hour Contribution Report provides immediate reporting of contribution received or made near or on the election date. Form 497 must be filed if a committee receives or makes contributions that total in the aggregate of $1,000 or more.

A late contribution includes contributions or loans from a candidate to their campaign committee during the late contribution period.

Note: Rohnert Park Municipal Code limits the amount any person may contribute to a candidate to no more than $500 during an election cycle.

A Late Contribution Report must be sent via telegram, mailgram, guaranteed overnight delivery service, fax, or personal delivery. Regular mail may not be used. The Report must be filed within 24 hours of the time the contribution was made. The recipient must also file a Report within 24 hours of receiving the late contribution. The Report must be filed at the City Clerk's Office, 130 Avram, Rohnert Park, California.

Please see the Campaign Disclosure Manual 2, Chapter 10.

CAMPAIGN DISCLOSURE MANUAL 2 (FPPC MANUAL)

Campaign Disclosure Manual 2 provides important and helpful information regarding state campaign finance and disclosure law that applies to local candidates and committees. This manual provides detailed information to assist both the candidate and his/her treasurer.

You can find the FPPC Manual here.

FUTURE FILINGS

Future filings will depend on your success in this election and if you retain your committee status.

CAMPAIGN FINANCE REGULATIONS

Rohnert Park Municipal Code 2.65

2.65.010 - Purpose.

The city council seeks to reduce the actual and perceived influence of contributions on elected officials by limiting the amount of campaign contributions for candidates and to further the goal of an informed electorate by supplementing the campaign disclosure requirements and related regulations set forth in the Political Reform Act of 1974.

(Ord. 750 § 1 (part), 2005)

2.65.020 - Definitions.

"Candidate" means any individual who is a candidate for an elected city office in a city election.

"City election" means any general election, special election or recall election.

"Election cycle" means the applicable period as set forth in Section 2.65.060 of this chapter.

"Person" means an individual, committee, proprietorship, firm, partnership, joint venture, syndicate, business trust, company, corporation, limited liability company, association and any other organization or group of persons acting in concert.

"Political Reform Act of 1974" means California Government Code section 81000 et seq., as amended from time to time.

"Recall election cycle" means the applicable period as set forth in Section 2.65.060.

Unless expressly defined in this chapter, or the contrary is stated or clearly appears from the context, words and phrases in this chapter shall have the same definition and meaning as when they are used in the Political Reform Act of 1974, as that Act may be amended from time to time.

(Ord. 750 § 1 (part), 2005)

2.65.030 - Contribution limitations—General.

A. No person shall make to any candidate or candidate-controlled committee, and no such candidate or candidate-controlled committee shall accept from any person, a contribution or contributions totaling more than five hundred dollars in an elective city office election cycle.

B. The contribution limitations set forth in subsection (A) of this section shall also apply to any committee that collects contributions for the purpose of making expenditures in support of or opposition to the recall of an elective city officer, and to contributions received by such elective city officer, during a recall election cycle.

C. The provisions of this section shall not apply to a candidate's contribution of his or her personal funds, community property funds, or domestic partnership funds to his or her own campaign committee.

D. A contribution shall not be considered to be received if it is not negotiated, deposited or utilized and, in addition, is returned to the donor within fourteen days of receipt.

E. The five hundred dollar limitation established by this section shall be reviewed by the city council in January of every fourth year commencing in 2010 to determine whether such limitation shall remain the same or be increased or decreased. Any amendment of the limitation must be done by ordinance and shall be preceded by at least one public hearing.

(Ord. 750 § 1 (part), 2005)

2.65.040 - Contribution limitations—Aggregation of contributions.

The contributions of any person whose contributions are directed and controlled by another person shall be aggregated with those of the controlling person for purposes of the contribution limits. With respect to family contributions, contributions by a husband and wife or by domestic partners shall be treated as separate contributions and shall not be aggregated. Contributions by children under eighteen years of age shall be treated as contributions by their parent(s), custodian(s), or guardian(s) and shall be attributed proportionately to each parent, custodian or guardian.

(Ord. 750 § 1 (part), 2005)

2.65.050 - Multiple campaign committees.

A. A candidate in a city election shall have no more than one candidate-controlled committee and such controlled committee shall have only one bank account out of which all qualified campaign and officeholder expenses related to that office shall be made.

B. This section does not prevent a candidate in a city election from establishing another candidate-controlled committee solely for the purpose of running for a state, federal, county or other elective office, or for opposing his or her recall.

(Ord. 750 § 1 (part), 2005)

2.65.060 - Election cycles.

A. General and Special Election Cycles. For the purposes of this chapter and with regards to campaigns for elective city offices, contributions to a candidate shall be deemed election contributions if such contributions are made at any time between the date that the candidate assumed office following the previous election and extending to the close of the third business day prior to the subsequent election date for that office seat.

B. Recall Election Cycle. For the purposes of this chapter and with regards to recall elections, contributions shall be deemed to have been made during a recall election cycle if they are made at any time after a committee has been formed pursuant to the provisions of the Political Reform Act of 1974 in support of a recall election, or after the clerk of the city of Rohnert Park has approved a recall petition for circulation and gathering of signatures, whichever occurs first. A recall election cycle shall end whenever any of the following events occur:

The recall proponent fails to return signed petitions to the clerk of the city of Rohnert Park within the time limits prescribed by the California Elections Code;

1. All committees formed in support of the recall have been terminated pursuant to the provisions of the Political Reform Act of 1974; or

2. Ten days after a recall election has been held.

(Ord. 750 § 1 (part), 2005)

2.65.070 - Use of surplus funds for future city elections.

Campaign funds acquired in one city election may not be used in any other future city election.

(Ord. 750 § 1 (part), 2005)

2.65.080 - Disclosure requirement.

A. Each candidate or candidate-controlled committee in a city election shall provide detailed itemization, as defined in the California Political Reform Act of 1974, for all contributions received in a cumulative amount of one hundred dollars or more.

B. Each candidate or candidate-controlled committee in a city election shall file a third pre-election Campaign Disclosure Statement (Government Form 460 or any successor form thereto), as provided by the California Fair Political Practices Commission, for the period from the end of the period covered by the second pre-election statement to 11:59 p.m. on the third business day immediately preceding election day (normally Thursday). Such statement shall be filed with the clerk of the city of Rohnert Park by 5:00 p.m. on the second business day immediately preceding election day (normally Friday).

(Ord. 750 § 1 (part), 2005)

2.65.090 - Disclosure of occupation and employer.

No campaign contribution required to be reported by the Political Reform Act of 1974 (cumulative or otherwise) shall be deposited into a campaign bank account of a candidate or of a candidate-controlled committee, unless the disclosure information required by the Political Reform Act of 1974, including the name, address, occupation and employer of the contributor, or, if self-employed, name of business, is on file in the records of the recipient of the contribution. This information is to be reported on each campaign statement required to be filed by the Political Reform Act of 1974.

(Ord. 750 § 1 (part), 2005)

2.65.100 - Disclosure of cumulative contributions.

Cumulative contributions for each contributor of one hundred dollars or more in an election cycle shall be itemized and reported on each campaign statement required to be filed by the Political Reform Act of 1974.

(Ord. 750 § 1 (part), 2005)

2.65.110 - Penalties.

A. Criminal Penalties. Any person who knowingly or willfully violates any provision of this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. In addition to other penalties provided by law, the penalty upon conviction of such person shall be by a fine in accordance with Government Code Section 91000.

B. Civil Penalties. Any person who intentionally or negligently violates any of the reporting requirements of this chapter may be sued in a civil action in accordance with Government Code Sections 91004 and following.

C. Cumulative Remedies. The foregoing remedies shall be deemed non-exclusive, cumulative and in addition to any other remedy the city of Rohnert Park may have at law or in equity. (Ord. 750 § 1 (part), 2005)

(Ord. No. 820, § 1, 3-24-2010)

POLITICAL SIGNS

Political signs are a traditional means of expressing a candidate's philosophy or position. As a candidate for City Council, your interest in reducing litter and preventing aesthetic blight is appreciated. Rohnert Park Zoning Code 17.27.050 regulates political signs to prevent an undue concentration of signs and clutter throughout the City and avoid an embarrassing situation from occurring to you or members of your campaign staff.

Campaign Signs are subject to Code Section 17.27.050

Campaign signs are not permitted on any public property or within any public right-ofway.

Campaign signs placed upon privately owned property must receive consent of the owner or occupant.

Campaign signs must be removed within ten (10) days after the day of the election. The person placing the sign, owner, or occupant of the premises upon which the sign is placed are each responsible for the removal of sign.

If you have any questions or need to report signs that look questionable as to placement, please contact Code Compliance at 707-588-2249.

Refer to Rohnert Park Municipal Code 17.27.050 and Campaign Sign Areas Map on following page for more information.

POLITICAL SIGNS ON STATE HIGHWAYS

A Statement of Responsibility for Temporary Political Signs must be filled out and submitted to the Department of Transportation Division of Right of Way. A form and additional information can be found here.

Alternatively, you may visit https://dot.ca.gov/programs/traffic-operations/oda/politicalsigns for more information.

https://sonomacounty.ca.gov/administrative-support-and-fiscal-services/clerk-recorder-assessor-registrar-of-voters/registrar-of-voters/elections/campaign-guide/campaign-posters-and-sign-placements

MAILER REQUIREMENTS

Sections 84305 - Elections Code

The Political Reform Act specifies that a candidate or committee who sends a mass mailing (200 or more identical or nearly identical pieces of mail in a calendar month) must identify itself on the mailer.

The Election Code 16 requires that city and county clerks or election officials provide a copy of Government Code Section 84305 to each candidate, or their agent, at the time that a declaration of candidacy is filed. A copy of Section 84305 is included on the following pages and a hard copy will be included with your nomination papers.

Additional information regarding mass mailing can be found in the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) Campaign Disclosure Manual 2.

Links to additional mass mailing related regulations:

Government Code Section 82041.5

Elections Code Section 18303

FPPC Regulations Section 18435

Government Code Section 89001

Government Code Section 89003

Elections Code Section 20008

State of California

GOVERNMENT CODE

Section 84305

84305.(a) (1) Except as provided in subdivision (b), a candidate, candidate controlled committee established for an elective office for the controlling candidate, or political party committee shall not send a mass mailing unless the name, street address, and city of the candidate or committee are shown on the outside of each piece of mail in the mass mailing and on at least one of the inserts included within each piece of mail of the mailing in no less than 6-point type that is in a color or print that contrasts with the background so as to be easily legible.A post office box may be stated in lieu of a street address if the candidate’s, candidate controlled committee established for an elective office for the controlling candidate’s, or political party committee’s address is a matter of public record with the Secretary of State.

(2) Except as provided in subdivision (b), a committee, other than a candidate controlled committee established for an elective ofﬁce for the controlling candidate or a political party committee, shall not send a mass mailing that is not required to include a disclosure pursuant to Section 84504.2 unless the name, street address, and city of the committee is shown on the outside of each piece of mail in the mass mailing and on at least one of the inserts included within each piece of mail of the mailing in no less than 6-point type that is in a color or print that contrasts with the background so as to be easily legible.A post ofﬁce box may be stated in lieu of a street address if the committee’s address is a matter of public record with the Secretary of State.

(b) If the sender of the mass mailing is a single candidate or committee, the name, street address, and city of the candidate or committee need only be shown on the outside of each piece of mail.

(c) (1) A candidate, candidate controlled committee established for an elective ofﬁce for the controlling candidate, or political party committee shall not send a mass electronic mailing unless the name of the candidate or committee is shown in the electronic mailing preceded by the words “Paid for by” in at least the same size font as a majority of the text in the electronic mailing.

(2) A committee, other than a candidate controlled committee established for an elective ofﬁce for the controlling candidate or a political party committee, shall not send a mass electronic mailing that is not required to include a disclosure pursuant to Section 84502 or 84504.3 unless the name of the committee is shown in the electronic mailing preceded by the words “Paid for by” in at least the same size font as a majority of the text in the electronic mailing.

(d) If the sender of a mass mailing is a controlled committee, the name of the person controlling the committee shall be included in addition to the information required by subdivision (a) or (c).

(e) For purposes of this section, the following terms have the following meanings:

(1) “Mass electronic mailing” means sending more than 200 substantially similar pieces of electronic mail within a calendar month. “Mass electronic mailing” does not include a communication that was solicited by the recipient, including, but not limited to, acknowledgments for contributions or information that the recipient communicated to the organization.

(2) “Sender” means the candidate, candidate controlled committee established for an elective ofﬁce for the controlling candidate, or political party committee who pays for the largest portion of expenditures attributable to the designing, printing, and posting of the mailing which are reportable pursuant to Sections 84200 to 84216.5, inclusive.

(3) To “pay for” a share of the cost of a mass mailing means to make, to promise to make, or to incur an obligation to make, any payment: (A) to any person for the design, printing, postage, materials, or other costs of the mailing, including salaries, fees, or commissions, or (B) as a fee or other consideration for an endorsement or, in the case of a ballot measure, support or opposition, in the mailing.

(f) This section does not apply to a mass mailing or mass electronic mailing that is paid for by an independent expenditure.

(Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 558, Sec. 1. (AB 864) Effective January 1, 2020. Note: This section was added on June 4, 1974, by initiative Prop. 9.)

ELECTIONEERING NEAR POLLING PLACE

Section 18370, 18371 - Elections Code

No person, on Election Day, or at any time that a voter may be casting a ballot, shall, within 100 feet of a polling place or an elections official’s office:

a) Circulate an initiative, referendum, recall, or nomination petition or any other petition.

b) Solicit a vote or speak to a voter on the subject of marking his or her ballot.

c) Place a sign relating to voters’ qualifications or speak to a voter on the subject of his or her qualifications except as provided in Section 14240.

d) Do any electioneering.

As used in this section, “100 feet of a polling place or an elections official’s office” means a distance 100 feet from the room or rooms in which voters are signing the roster and casting ballots.

Any person who violates any of the provisions of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor.

PLACEMENT OF NAMES ON BALLOT

Municipal Code

Section

2 66 020

13112

- Elections Code

The Secretary of State will conduct a random alphabetical drawing on August 15, 2024 to determine the order in which qualified candidates’ name shall appear on the ballot for election held on November 5, 2024 The resulting order of letters constitutes the "randomized alphabet" to be used for determining the order of candidates' names on the ballot

Once completed, the order should be available at https://sonomacounty ca gov/CRA/Registrar-of-Voters/Elections/ or by telephone at (707) 565-6800

The City will notify candidates of the results of the drawing

REGISTRAR OF VOTERS FEE SCHEDULE

The County of Sonoma Register of Voter has voter registration information available for governmental, political, journalistic, or educational purposes only. Commercial use of voter registration information is prohibited by law and is a misdemeanor.

Included with this guide is a copy of the Fee Schedule from the Registrar of Voters of Sonoma County. This schedule states what information is available and the cost for the information. The telephone number for the Registrar of Voters is (707) 565-6818 or email: rov-materials@sonoma-county.org.

Please visit https://sonomacounty.ca.gov/CRA/Registrar-of-Voters/Campaign-Materials/ for more information.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

Section 2107 - Elections Code

The last day to register to vote for this election is Monday, October 21, 2024 You can obtain voter registration form at the City Clerk’s Office or register online at https://registertovote ca gov/

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. When do the newly-elected Councilmembers take office?

The oath of office is tentatively scheduled to be administered by the City Clerk at the City Council Reorganization Meeting on December 10, 2024.

2. Where are election results available?

Official election results will begin being posted online shortly after 8:00 p.m. on Election Night and posted on the Sonoma County Registrar of Voters (ROV) website https://sonomacounty.ca.gov/

3. When will the official results of the election be received and certified?

The Sonoma County Registrar of Voters will commence canvassing and certify the results of the election no later than December 5, 2024. The City Clerk is tentatively scheduled to present the results at the December 10, 2024, City Council Reorganization Meeting.

4. How does Rohnert Park government work?

Rohnert Park follows a Council/Manager form of local government, with a Council elected by the people and charged with the basic responsibility for governing the community and a City Manager appointed by the Council to manage the City organization.

5. What is the difference between the City Council and City Manager?

Rohnert Park is a California municipal corporation. The City Council is the community’s legislative body and is similar to the Board of Directors of a private or public corporation. The Council provides direction on business matters, sets policy, adopts the annual budget, and hires/evaluates the performance of the City Manager. The City Manager serves as the City Council’s chief advisor, prepares the budget, oversees staff, and acts to carry out City Council programs. Because the City Council is the legislative body, its members are the community’s elected decision makers. The City Manager is hired to serve at the pleasure of the City Council as its full-time executive whose job is to administer staff, projects, and programs on behalf of the City Council.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

6. What does the Mayor do?

The Mayor represents the City at community functions, maintains liaison with other governmental agencies, and serves as the presiding officer at City Council meetings. The City Councilmember who will serve as Mayor is selected each year by the City Council. The City Council also selects a Mayor Pro Tem to act for the Mayor when not available.

7. What are City Council/City Manager Policies?

The City Council retains the sole power of being the policy making and legislative body for the City. However, both the City Council and City Manager have responsibility for initiating consideration of new policies. The City Manager routinely prepares policy alternatives and recommendations for consideration by the City Council. The City Council may adopt, reject, or modify the recommendations. The City Manager is bound by whatever action the City Council takes and is responsible for implementation of City Council-approved policies.

8. Who appoints city officials?

The City Council is responsible for appointing the City Manager and City Attorney. The City Manager, serving as the City’s Executive Officer, is responsible for appointing all other employees.

9. What does the City Manager do?

The City Manager exercises general supervision and provides direction to the city staff. The Leadership Team (Directors) report to the City Manager. The Council interacts with the administration of the City through the City Manager

10. Who handles the City Council Meeting Agenda?

The City Council generally meets twice a month on Tuesdays to consider and act on City business The agenda is coordinated via the City Clerk Department under the direction of the City Manager with items submitted from the City Council through the City Manager, City Manager, City Attorney, and City Departments

11. Who appoints the City Commission, Committee, and Board Members?

The City Council appoints members of official City Boards, Committees, and Commissions

12. Who prepares the City Budget?

The City Manager and Finance Director are responsible for the preparation of the proposed annual budget for the City The City Council is responsible for reviewing the document and making policy choices to ensure the budget fits the needs of the community After adoption by the City Council, the City Manager implements and administers the budget A copy of the budget is available to candidates by request, and on the City’s website

OTHER ELECTION RESOURCES

Sonoma County Registrar of Voters

Information Type Phoner Number Notes

General Information

707-565-6800

Toll-free (within California) 800-750-8683

TDD (hearing impaired)

Fax

Vote by Mail

Campaign Disclosure

Campaign Materials

Candidate Filing

Voter Registration

707-565-6888

707-565-6843

707-565-6803

707-565-6804

707-565-6818

707-565-6804

707-565-6800

Vote by mail ballot applications, information

Financial disclosure statements, information

Voter lists, maps, precinct information

Filing requirements for office

Voter registration forms, information

https://sonomacounty ca gov/vote Provides information about the Sonoma County Registrar of Voters Office and voting information including the following: Registering to Vote, Political Party Preference, Facts for New Citizens, Services for Voters with Disabilities, Vote by Mail Information including Permanent Vote by Mail Voting, Polling Places and County Voter Information Guide, Serving at the Polls, Student Precinct Officer Program, and Campaign Materials and Costs. Sonoma County Election Night Results: Election results are posted starting at 8:00 pm on Election night and updated periodically through the night. Final results are posted after certification up to 28 days post-election.

Vote by Mail Information

rov-absentee@sonoma-county.org

Voter Registration Information rov-voterreg@sonoma-county.org

Campaign Information rov-campaign@sonoma-county org

Ordering Maps and/or Voter Data rov-materials@sonoma-county.org

General Information rov-info@sonoma-county.org

Military/Overseas Voters Information militaryandoverseas@sonoma-county.org

Poll Worker Information rov-polls@sonoma-county org

OTHER ELECTION RESOURCES CONTINUED

Office of the Secretary of State

Elections Division

Fax

916-657-2166

916-653-3214

Political Reform Division 916-653-6224

General information, filing for state & federal offices

Committee ID number, termination

Secretary of State Website http://www.sos.ca.gov

Secretary of State Elections Division http://www.sos.ca.gov/elections

Secretary of State Political Reform Division http://www.sos.ca.gov/prd

Fair Political Practices Commission

Technical Assistance Division

Campaign disclosure, state contribution limits, conflict of interest disclosure

Enforcement Division File complaint under Political Reform Act

916-322-5660

Advice Line: 1-866-ASK-FPPC (1-866-275-3772)

916-322-0886

1-866-ASK-FPPC (1-866-275-3772)

Monday-Thursday 9:30 am-11:30 am

Please note that enforcement staff does not offer telephone advice and does not accept complaints over the telephone. However, you may request advice via email to advice@fppc.ca.gov, or you may call the advice line, toll free, at: Complaints and questions may be submitted electronically to: complaint@fppc.ca.gov

Fair Political Practices Commission Website http://www fppc ca gov

State Franchise Tax Board

Automated Information

Committee tax status, tax deductible contributions, charitable non-profit groups, general information

800-338-0505

State Franchise Tax Board Website https://www.ftb.ca.gov/

OTHER ELECTION RESOURCES

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

IRS Website https://www.irs.gov

Elections Commission

General Information 800-424-9530 Federal campaign disclosure, contributions from national banks, national corporations, foreign nationals

Federal Elections Commission Website https://www.fec.gov

California Law

California Legislative Information http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/