Elections/Voting Information

GENERAL ELECTION INFORMATION

The Montebello City Council is composed of five members. On May 11, 2022, the City Council adopted a City Council district map, creating a total of five (5) electoral districts within the City. Municipal elections are held the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of even numbered years, with three Councilmembers selected at one election and two at the next. Councilmembers are elected only by the registered voters of their district and must reside in that district. Councilmembers serve a four-year term, with a maximum of three consecutive four-year terms. 

The City of Montebello consolidates its elections with LA County. Voting information including voter registration status can be found on the Election Information page on the LA County Registrar-Recorder website.

LA County uses Vote Center instead of precinct polling places. Voters can cast a ballot in-person at ANY Vote Center in the County up to 10 days earlier than Election Day in some locations.

California Assembly Bill 37 now requires all registered voters to receive a vote by mail ballot. You may return your ballot by mail, to any vote-by-mail ballot drop box, or at any Vote Center. Vote by Mail information

PROSPECTIVE CANDIDATES INFORMATION

If you would like to become a candidate for local office, one must:

  • A citizen of the United States.
  • At least 18 years of age.
  • City of Montebello Resident.
  • Registered to vote within your District.
  • PRE-NOMINATION PERIOD ACTIVITIES

    Prior to soliciting or receiving any contributions related to candidacy, one must file a Candidate Intention Statement California Form 501 with the City Clerk's Office.

    CAMPAIGN REPORTING REQUIREMENTS FOR CANDIDATES

    The Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) provides free, expert advice at their toll free number (866) ASK-FPPC (275-3772) or you may go to their website.

    INITIATIVES, REFERENDUMS, AND RECALLS

    The City Clerk's Office cannot interpret laws or offer legal advice, and if applicable, we strongly suggest seeking legal counsel to ensure that your actions are in full compliance with the California Elections Code.

    BALLOT INITIATIVES AND  REFENDUMS

     California Elections Code outlines the process for circulating petitions for ballot initiatives and referendums. The requirements may differ based upon the type of legislation to determine what applies to the situation, for more information, please consult California Elections Code Sections 9200-9226 and California Elections Code Sections 9235-9247.

    RECALLS

    The City or any of its employees are not and cannot participate in, give advice, answer questions or otherwise engage in any process relating to the possible recall of a public official.  The links below provide guidelines by the California Secretary of State and the Los Angeles County Registrar.

    California Secretary of State Guide

    Los Angeles County Registrar Guide

    Los Angeles County Registrar phone number: (800) 815-2666.

    For more information or inquiries, contact the Secretary of State or County Registrar or consult with an attorney. 

    ROLE OF THE CITY CLERK'S OFFICE DURING ELECTIONS

    The City Clerk's Office is responsible for overseeing the administration of the City's General Municipal and Special Elections for City Council, City Clerk, and City Treasurer candidates and City measures; processing petitions relating to initiatives, recalls, and referendums. The City Clerk's Office prepares the Candidates' Nomination Packet, administers the candidacy and nomination process, informs candidates of their election responsibilities and disclosure requirements, publishes election notices, responds to election questions, secures the services of and coordinates with the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder County Clerk’s Office to certify the results of the election. The City Clerk’s Office also conducts City Council reorganization and assists with the coordination of the Oath of Office Ceremony and Outgoing Mayor's Ceremony.