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SGS - ACTION ITEM: (1) Discussion of Democracy Vouchers and (2) If Desired, Recommendation to the City Council.
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Meeting Date: October 8, 2025
Contact Person/Dept.: Shelly Wolfberg/City Manager's Office
Phone Number: (310) 253-6000
Fiscal Impact: Yes [ ] No [X] General Fund: Yes [ ] No [X]
Attachments: Yes [X] No [ ]
Public Notification: (E-Mail) Meetings and Agendas - Standing Governance Subcommittee (10/03/2025)
Department Approval: Jesse Mays, Assistant City Manager (10/02/2025) _____________________________________________________________________
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the Standing Governance Subcommittee (1) discuss Democracy Vouchers and, (2) if desired, make a recommendation to the City Council.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION
At the April 2, 2025, Standing Governance Subcommittee Meeting, the Subcommittee discussed Democracy Vouchers and the desire to add this topic to its Work Plan. In recent years, there has been some interest nationwide in public campaign financing systems that seek to enhance civic engagement, increase transparency, and reduce the influence of large donors in local elections. Under this system, eligible residents are provided with publicly funded vouchers that can be assigned to participating local candidates who agree to spending limits and other transparency measures. The program aims to empower a broader cross-section of residents to participate in campaign financing, particularly those historically underrepresented in political contributions.
The Subcommittee may decide to discuss key considerations regarding the potential adoption of a similar program in Culver City, including goals, implementation options, costs, and possible impact on elections.
Components to Consider for a Democracy Voucher Program
? Eligibility - For example, residents of Culver City 18 years or older and/or registered voters.
? Voucher Distribution - Vouchers mailed or available digitally to r...
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