Measure C Informational Meeting | Oct. 22

The City of Santa Clara held an informational forum on Measure C, a proposed charter amendment concerning public works procurement (meeting title: Oct. 22; metadata timestamp: Oct. 30, 2026). Presenters explained that the measure would set $250,000 thresholds for City Council approval and formal bidding, raise the threshold for using city forces from the current $1,000 level, and permit—without requiring—alternative award methods such as best-value and design-build procurement. Traditional low-bid procurement would remain available, particularly for straightforward projects, and detailed implementation rules and safeguards would be set by ordinance. No procurement award or vote on the measure occurred at the forum; voters will decide the measure on the November 2026 ballot.

Public Works and Silicon Valley Power representatives said design-build could suit complex facilities and utility projects, including Measure I projects, receiving stations, substations, and future generation assets. They estimated the approach could save roughly four to six months on some projects; the city’s 2026–27 capital budget was cited as $839 million, with about $400 million in Measure I projects referenced. The discussion also noted potential staff-time savings from increasing approval thresholds. The forum described the measure as an opportunity to expand procurement options, not a requirement to use them; no contract awards or spending approvals were made.