Early voting has commenced in Santa Clara County for the upcoming assessor runoff election, which will determine the next chief property tax administrator for the region. Voters can access 19 vote centers starting Saturday, with an additional 19 centers opening on December 27. This election will take place on December 30, 2025, featuring a contest between Neysa Fligor, the Vice Mayor of Los Altos, and former Saratoga Councilmember Rishi Kumar.
A total of 38 voting centers will be available throughout the county, with operating hours set from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and select locations open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The centers will accommodate voters even during the holiday season, remaining open on weekends and Christmas. On Election Day, all locations will function from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Finances and Voter Turnout Concerns
The runoff election arises after Fligor secured the most votes in the November 4 special election but fell short of a majority. The winner will oversee a substantial $700 billion assessment roll and manage approximately 500,000 property owners. Fligor’s campaign has demonstrated financial strength, raising $420,000 this year, according to campaign finance records. In contrast, Kumar has raised $35,000, predominantly following the November election.
Officials express concern over potential voter turnout, which may decline due to the holiday period. The turnout during the November special election reached 51%, spurred by support for statewide Proposition 50, aimed at redistricting congressional boundaries in California. According to Matt Moreles, the county-appointed Registrar of Voters, “We strive to make voting as easy and convenient as possible.” Moreles highlighted the availability of services including voter registration, assistance in 14 languages, and support for voters with disabilities.
Voting Options and Economic Context
Voters have multiple options for casting their ballots. In addition to early voting, they can mail their ballots or drop them off at any of the county’s 109 official drop boxes, which are accessible 24 hours a day. On Election Day, drop boxes will remain open until 8 p.m. For those who missed the December 15 voter registration deadline, there is an opportunity to register and vote simultaneously by casting a provisional ballot.
The outcome of this election holds significant implications for the region, particularly as property values in Silicon Valley are experiencing their slowest growth in over a decade. Economic challenges, including high interest rates and rising construction costs, have stalled several major projects, such as Google’s planned Downtown West development in San Jose. This project, initially slated to commence in 2023, remains unresolved. Current economic conditions have also contributed to a persistent office vacancy rate of approximately 20% in Silicon Valley, exacerbated by declining rental rates and the shift towards hybrid and remote work arrangements.
As the election approaches, the candidates and their supporters are poised for a critical showdown that will not only impact local governance but also reflect broader economic trends affecting the community. Voters are encouraged to participate actively in this important civic duty.
