Page 11 - Special District Handbook with Cover-Final

PHASE 2 -- THE PETITION

YOU’RE MAKING PROGRESS!

STEP 1…FORMATTING THE PETITION

The petition format is described in Elections Code §§ 100, 9020, 9022, 9301, 9302, 9305, and 9307. This format is mandated and must be used. See Exhibit E, page 32, for a sample of the special district initiative format.

• The Notice of Intention follows the heading. The law does not specify the type size for the Notice of Intention, but it should not be less than 8 point. Each section (page) of the petition shall bear a copy of the Notice of Intention and Statement of Reasons. If the petition is two-sided, the Notice of Intention and Statement of Reasons must be included on both sides.

Elec. Code § 9305

• Insert the required Statement of Reasons not to exceed 500 words in length. Elec. Code § 9302

• Format the signature on the Notice of Intention as “s/Name, Address, City, State, Zip” on the petition (Substitute “s” for the proponent(s)’ actual signature).

Tips on Special District Initiative Petition Format

□ The petition can accompany any amount of signatures.

□ The petition can be printed on 8 ½” x 11” or 8 ½” x 14” or larger.

□ The petition can be single-side or doubled-sided. However, if double-sided, make sure the Notice of Intention and Statement of Reasons appear on both sides of the petition.

□ The petition can be printed on color paper; however, neon colors are not recommended.

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