TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: Justin Clifton, City Manager
PREPARED BY: Isaac Bravo, Management Analyst
SUBJECT:
title
Discussion Regarding Potential Modifications to City Council Term Limits
end
ABSTRACT
At the request of Council Member Stone, this report provides relevant background and analysis regarding potential changes to existing City Council term limits, including the potential placement of a ballot measure, and requests direction from the City Council.
RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Provide direction to staff regarding the potential initiation of a ballot measure for the November 2026 General Municipal Election related to a proposed increase of the existing City Council term limits.
body
PRIOR ACTION/VOTE
On December 7, 2010, Ordinance No. 444-10 was adopted by declaration of the results of the November 2, 2010, General Municipal Election, establishing term limits for local elected officials (Measure C) (Vote: 4-0-1).
On February 1, 2011, the City Council voted to introduce an ordinance with clarifying language on Measure C (Vote: 5-0).
On February 15, 2011, the City Council directed staff to return with an ordinance to clarify when the term limits became effective 11-2-10 (Vote: 4-0-1).
On March 1, 2011, Ordinance No. 454-11 was introduced with clarifying language (Vote: 5-0).
On March 15, 2011, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 454-11, clarifying when the term limit application commenced (Vote:4-0-1).
CITY COUNCIL GOAL
Maintain a high performing organization that values fiscal sustainability, transparency, accountability and organizational efficiency.
DISCUSSION
Pursuant to Section 2.8.1 of the City Council Rules of Procedure, Council Member Stone requested that the City Manager place this item on a future City Council agenda for discussion regarding potential modifications to existing City Council term limits. Because the request was submitted directly to the City Manager under Section 2.8.1, consideration under Section 2.8.2 was not required.
The November 3, 2026, General Municipal Election presents an opportunity for the City Council to consider placing measures before Murrieta voters on matters involving municipal governance, policy, fiscal, or operational issues that may require or benefit from direct voter approval. Placement of a ballot measure would allow residents to directly participate in decisions that may impact the organization, structure, and long-term direction of the City.
Council Member Stone expressed interest in considering a modification to the City’s current term limits by expanding the existing limit from two consecutive four-year terms to three four-year terms, whether consecutive or non-consecutive. Because Murrieta’s term limits were originally approved by voters, any amendment would require voter approval pursuant to California Government Code Section 36502(b).
If the City Council wishes to place a measure on the November 2026 ballot, action must occur in accordance with the timelines established by the Riverside County Registrar of Voters by August 7, 2026.
Key Considerations
Cities throughout Southwest Riverside County have adopted varying approaches to term limits. Some cities have no term limits, while others permit two or three terms, with certain jurisdictions allowing reelection after a break in service. Murrieta currently limits City Council Members to two consecutive four-year terms, while allowing reelection after leaving office for at least one term.
Proponents of longer-term limits would assert that additional time in office promotes continuity in governance, preserves institutional knowledge, and strengthens the City’s ability to advocate on regional and long-term initiatives. They may also contend that experienced elected officials are better positioned to navigate complex governmental processes, maintain regional partnerships, and advance major infrastructure, transportation, economic development, and public safety initiatives that often span many years.
Conversely, proponents of shorter-term limits may emphasize leadership rotation, accountability, and the introduction of new perspectives into local government. They may argue that regular turnover encourages broader civic participation, reduces the concentration of influence among long-serving officials, and creates opportunities for new ideas and diverse representation in local governance.
FISCAL IMPACT
While there is no direct fiscal impact associated with this report, if the City Council opts to proceed with a ballot measure, the estimated cost for placing a ballot measure on the November 2026 General Election is approximately an additional $143,000, subject to fluctuation based on text quantity and postage.
ATTACHMENTS
None.