FAQ: Next Steps After the Certification of Councilmembers Recalled 

1. The San Mateo County Elections Office certified the Special Election for District 2 and District 4; both Councilmembers were recalled as of August 22, 2024. What options does the City Council now have?

Under Government Code §36512(b), the City Council has 60 days commencing from August 22, 2024, to consider the following two options to fill the Council District 2 and District 4 vacancies:
a.  Appointment: The remaining City Councilmembers may choose to appoint a new member from each district who meets the eligibility requirements to run for elected office;
or
b.  Special Election: Call for a special election to be held on March 4, 2025.

2. Can the City Council make appointments in the interim and call for a special election for March 2025? 

The law does not allow for interim councilmember appointments prior to the March 2025 election.  (Government Code §36512(b))

3. Is the Council appointing or calling for a special election?

At the August 27 City Council meeting, the Council directed staff to start accepting applications to fill the District 2 and District 4 vacancies while keeping the option of calling a special election open. Watch the meeting discussion with this link: https://bit.ly/MCC20240827 

4. What is the timeline for appointment to the City Council?

• October 1, 2024 by 5:00 p.m. – Application, supplement questions, and Form 700 due to the City Clerk.
• October 7, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. – Interview of applicants at a Special City Council meeting.
• October 22, 2024 – Decision to be made: Appointment/Call for Special Election. 

5. What is the eligibility to apply for an appointment to City Council?

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, a qualified elector, and a resident of the respective district (District 2 or District 4) for at least 30 days before the appointment.

6. What is the term of the appointment?

From appointment date to December 8, 2026.

7. How do I apply?

Completed applications, with supplemental and FPPC Form 700 Statement of Economic Interests (per Government Code 87200), must be received by the City Clerk’s Office by 5:00 p.m. on October 1, 2024.

Deliver to: City Clerk’s Office, 621 Magnolia Ave, Millbrae, CA 94030.  A PDF version of the completed application and form 700 may be emailed to the City Clerk at etran@ci.millbrae.ca.us by the deadline with a hard copy mailed or delivered within 24 hours. The email date will suffice to establish meeting the deadline.

8. Where can I find more information?

Stay informed by:

• City of Millbrae Website: Visit the City’s website (https://bit.ly/MillbraeApplication) for updates, announcements, and resources. Don’t forget to sign up for our e-notify, where you can select the information you want to receive from the City.
• Public Meetings: Attend City Council meetings to stay informed and engaged with the ongoing process.
• City Clerk’s Office: Contact the City Clerk’s Office for information at etran@ci.millbrae.ca.us or call (650) 259-2414.