Local Councils Debate Proposition 50 Ahead of Election Day

In a recent development in California politics, resolutions opposing Proposition 50 were briefly considered by both the South Lake Tahoe City Council and the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors on October 21, 2024. Each proposal faced significant pushback and ultimately was either postponed or removed from the agendas.

Proposition 50, which will be on the ballot during the special election on **November 4**, seeks to authorize the temporary use of legislatively-drawn congressional district maps from **2026 to 2030**. This proposition, referred to as the “Election Rigging Response Act,” serves as a countermeasure to recent congressional redistricting efforts in Texas led by Republican lawmakers.

At the South Lake Tahoe City Council meeting, council member **Keith Roberts** initiated the proposal on **September 9**, which was supported by then-acting Mayor **Tamara Wallace**. However, following public comments and discussions during the October 21 meeting, council member **Scott Robbins** motioned to withdraw the resolution. Acting Mayor **Cody Bass** seconded his motion, resulting in a vote that favored dropping the resolution with **three members** in favor and one dissenting voice from **council member David Jinkens**.

The public commentary reflected a significant divide, with many questioning the appropriateness of addressing such a contentious issue. Council member Roberts clarified that he did not intend for the resolution to become a partisan matter, emphasizing that the potential changes to districting could significantly affect the city of South Lake Tahoe. “Because it has become so volatile and we have so much going on in our city right now,” Roberts stated, “I don’t have any problem voting no against this resolution just to keep faith.”

The El Dorado County Board of Supervisors also addressed the issue, but their resolution opposing Proposition 50 faced a swift withdrawal before any discussion could occur. During the initial agenda adoption, several supervisors expressed their desire to remove or postpone the item due to its divisive nature. Supervisor **Brooke Laine**, representing District V, noted her reluctance to engage with the resolution, suggesting it was more fitting for voters to decide.

Initially proposed by Supervisor **Turnboo**, the resolution was intended to address concerns raised by the county’s district attorney and sheriff. However, Supervisor Turnboo agreed to postpone the discussion. Ultimately, the supervisors voted **4-1** to delay the item until **November 4**, coinciding with the election date, with Supervisor **Greg Ferrero** opposing the motion.

For further details on Proposition 50, voters can visit the official state voter guide at **voterguide.sos.ca.gov**. The upcoming election will provide a platform for constituents to voice their opinions on this significant issue, highlighting the importance of public engagement in the democratic process.