Residents of Rancho Santa Fe Will Vote in June on Cityhood
Voters in Rancho Santa Fe will cast ballots on the issue of cityhood June 2, after the county Board of Supervisors’ decision this week authorizing the election.
In December, the Local Agency Formation Commission approved a proposal to incorporate the Ranch, an exclusive hamlet east of Del Mar noted for its pricey estates and quaint, eucalyptus-shrouded downtown.
Under state law, county supervisors must approve the proposal and order a public vote unless 50% of the residents in the affected area submit written protests. While some residents have objected to the boundaries of the proposed city, which are wider than a committee on home rule had recommended, there was little organized opposition at a public hearing Wednesday.
Civic leaders in Rancho Santa Fe believe incorporation is essential to protect the rural character of their area, improve law enforcement and other public services, and block county plans to widen two roads that bisect the village.
Also on the June ballot will be candidates for the City Council and two choices for the proposed name for the new municipality: “City of Rancho Santa Fe” and “Town of Rancho Santa Fe.”
If approved, the new city of about 5,000 residents would rival Del Mar for title as the county’s smallest incorporated community.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
