Subject
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Introduction of an Ordinance to repeal and reenact City Code Chapter 8 of the Rockville Election Code Entitled “Elections”
end
Department
City Clerk/Director of Council Operations Office
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the Mayor and Council introduce the Ordinance to repeal and reenact Chapter 8 of the Rockville Election Code and schedule a public hearing.
Change in Law or Policy
Upon adoption, the new election code will repeal and reenact City Code Chapter 8, title “Elections,” to reorganize the Chapter and provide an updated elections process in line with State law and best practices.
Discussion
The attached ordinance (Attachment 1) is provided for introduction purposes only. Following the introduction of the ordinance, pursuant to the City Charter, if three or more members of the Mayor and Council request a public hearing on the draft election code, one will be scheduled. Staff anticipates a public hearing will be held and has reserved time on the June 1, 2026, Mayor and Council meeting for the public hearing.
There will be further discussion during the work session on the proposed election code. Please review the work session staff report for more details.
Impact Statements
Equity
As drafted, the proposed ordinance is designed to enhance fairness, accessibility, and transparency in the City's electoral process. By emphasizing equitable treatment of all voters, ensuring that qualified residents can register and vote, the ordinance seeks to uphold the integrity of elections and protect the rights of eligible voters. Key provisions, such as the establishment of accessible vote centers and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Help America Vote Act (HAVA), promote inclusivity for the elderly and voters with disability.
Environment
As drafted, the proposed ordinance includes provisions that may have indirect environmental impacts. The vote-by-mail system and the use of ballot drop boxes could reduce the need for voters to travel to polling locations, potentially lowering vehicle emissions and contributing to improved air quality in the City. Additionally, the use of electronic signatures and digital communication for campaign materials and election processes may reduce the reliance on paper, thereby decreasing paper waste and promoting more sustainable practices.
Economy
As drafted, the proposed ordinance includes measures such as vote-by-mail systems, ballot drop boxes, and accessible vote centers, which may or may not require investment in infrastructure and technology. Additionally, the ordinance includes provisions for public financing of municipal elections starting in 2031, which may require the allocation of City funds to support candidates from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
Mayor and Council History
This is the first time the Mayor and Council are introducing the ordinance to repeal and reenact City Code Chapter 8, titled “Elections,” to reorganize the Chapter and provide an updated elections process in line with State law and best practices.
Public Notification and Engagement
Following the introduction of the Ordinance, a public hearing will be scheduled and held prior to the adoption of the code.
Boards and Commissions Review
The Office of the City Attorney met with the Board of Supervisors of Elections (BSE) on March 26, 2026, where the city attorney provided an outline and overview of their approach to drafting the proposed code. The proposed draft has been shared with members of the BSE to review and provide feedback/comments.
Next Steps
Following the introduction of the Ordinance and staff will schedule the public hearing. The Ordinance is tentatively scheduled to be brought back before Mayor and Council for adoption on June 29, 2026.