Frequent Asked Questions

1. Our town council had no choice but accelerate the housing element. Doesn’t a non compliance bring severe consequences?
   
   The State mandates a housing element, but it doesn’t mean Fairfax must accept high-rise overdevelopment. Over 100 of California’s 482 cities lack approved housing elements, showing pushback is possible without bankruptcy or severe retaliation. The former Town Council approved seven downtown sites for high-rise towers, including 175 units at School Street Plaza—now proposed at 243 units on just 1.92 acres (126 units per acre). We believe this is overkill for Fairfax’s character. Another council member even notes the State’s enforcement limits and supports reclassifying Fairfax as a Charter Town for more local control. We’re recalling council members who backed this excessive rezoning because Fairfax deserves leaders who fight for balanced growth, not unchecked density.

2. What are the steps of a recall?
   
   Here’s what’s next in our Fairfax recall effort: First, we must collect signatures from 25% of Fairfax’s registered voters. Approximately 1500 signatures. Once gathered, these signatures will be submitted to the town clerk and verified by the county elections office. After being verified, a special election will be held within 4 months of submission. For the recall to succeed, 50% of voters must vote in favor.
   
   After a successful recall, the remaining three balanced council members can appoint interim replacements to serve until the next election (about 18 months away) or call a special election. An appointment is likely, giving a more balanced council the chance to select two interim members. The public can then observe their work for a year before deciding at the next election if they wish for them to serve 4 more years or to run new officials.