Five candidates are competing for three four-year seats on the Corte Madera Town Council on Tuesday, Nov. 3, in an election shaped by months of public tension at Town Hall.
Election results are pending. This article will be updated as election officials release vote totals.
Incumbents Eli Beckman and Pat Ravasio are seeking new terms. Challengers David Bell, Ava Fruin and Deborah Gallegos round out the field, according to the town’s qualified-candidate announcement. Mayor Rosa Thomas is not seeking reelection.
Voters will also decide Measure Q, which would extend and increase the existing parcel tax for paramedic and emergency medical services. The Town Council placed the measure on the ballot through a resolution adopted at its June 2 meeting, according to the town’s election page. No arguments were filed in opposition to Measure Q.
What’s at stake
Town officials accused Ravasio of disclosing closed-session information in violation of California’s Brown Act and requested investigations by the district attorney and civil grand jury, the Marin Independent Journal reported. The paper also reported that the council fired Town Manager Adam Wolff without publicly explaining why.
Ravasio has denied wrongdoing, according to California City News.
The candidates
Eli Beckman is an architect seeking a third term. His filed statement cites eight years on the council, including two mayoral terms, and identifies flood protection, wildfire prevention and local businesses as priorities.
Pat Ravasio is seeking a second term. Her filed statement emphasizes flood protection, fire station improvements, recreation and pedestrian access.
David Bell describes himself as a retired environmental engineer in his filed statement. He reports seven years on the town’s flood control board and emphasizes collaboration.
Ava Fruin is a Larkspur-Corte Madera School District trustee. Her filed statement highlights experience with budgets, strategic planning and community engagement.
Deborah Gallegos is a deputy controller with the California State Controller’s Office. Her filed statement emphasizes financial oversight, local businesses and sustainability.
How to vote and track results
All 21 Marin County vote centers are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Pacific time on Election Day, according to the Marin County Elections Department. Ballot drop boxes also close at 8 p.m.
Voters can follow returns through the county’s election results page, linked from its election information page. Election-night totals are unofficial. The county’s canvass period begins Nov. 4 at 8 a.m.
