The Riverside County Registrar of Voters officially certified the results of the November 5, 2024, Presidential General Election on Tuesday, confirming voter turnout and final tallies for races and measures across the region. A total of 959,098 ballots were counted, reflecting a turnout of 69.89% of eligible voters.
Among the results, Canyon Lake’s closely watched Measure Z failed by a slim margin of just 25 votes. Out of the 6,481 registered voters who cast ballots on Measure Z, 3,253 (50.19%) voted against it, while 3,228 (49.81%) supported it.
Measure Z proposed a new special tax to fund enhanced public safety services, establish a new cannabis business tax with an initial rate of 6%, and ensure that funds from the already established Utility Users Tax (UUT) and the Emergency Medical Services Program (EMS) be used exclusively for public safety services.
Proponents argued that the measure was vital to maintaining Canyon Lake’s standard of public safety, including expanding police and fire services. Opponents cited concerns about the financial burden on residents, especially as the cost of living continues to rise.
The narrow defeat of Measure Z underscores the city’s ongoing challenge to balance and enhance public safety needs with fiscal responsibility.
Despite the narrow loss, discussions around public safety funding are expected to continue at upcoming city council meetings. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged and participate in future community discussions.
In the race for Canyon Lake City Council, three candidates vied for three open seats. A total of 9,827 votes were cast, with incumbent and current Mayor Dale Welty earning 3,453 votes (35.14%), newcomer Josh Steeber receiving 3,231 votes (32.88%), and incumbent and current Mayor Pro Tem Mark Terry securing 3143 votes (31.98%)
The city council reorganization meeting will be held on Wednesday, December 11, at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber at City Hall. During the meeting, the council will reorganize its leadership positions and roles, including the appointment of a new mayor and mayor pro tem, who will serve the citizens of Canyon Lake in the upcoming year.
