This webpage is intended to assist individuals interested in the Initiative, Referendum, and Recall process.  The City Clerk’s Office strives to provide the most current information and forms; however, state statutes and election cases are subject to constant change and interpretation.

Link to Arizona Secretary of State Initiative and Referendum Guide

Link to Arizona Secretary of State Recall Quick Reference Guide

Initiative, Referendum and Recall packets may be obtained by emailing Kara DeArrastia, City Clerk, at Kara_Dearrastia@tempe.gov, or calling 480-350-8947 with a request to receive information about the Initiative, Referendum, or Recall process.

Initiative, Referendum and Recall Signature Requirements
Based on the May 19, 2026 General Election canvass

Initiative
83,242 Registered Voters (TCC) x 15% (AZ Constitution) = 12,486 signatures required

References:
Arizona State Constitution, Article 4, Part 1, § 1(8)
Tempe City Charter (TCC), Article VIII, § 8.01

Referendum
24,310 Ballots Cast x 10% (AZ Constitution) = 2,431 signatures required

References:
Arizona State Constitution, Article 4, Part 1, § 1(8)
Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) § 19-142(A)
TCC, Article VIII, § 8.01

Recall
Recall petitions may not be circulated against an officer until the officer has served six (6) months of their first term.

Mayor
Mayoral candidates:
Corey Woods: 19,050
Peter Kovacs (Qualified Write In): 27
Total Votes: 19,077 x 25% = 4,769 signatures required

Councilmember
City Council candidates:
Jennifer Adams: 9,308
Arlene Chin: 11,821
Joe Forte: 6,781
Berdetta Hodge: 10,475
Bobby Nichols: 11,613
Brooke St. George: 12,836
Elvis Taska: 7,005
Total Votes: 69,839 x 25% = 17,460 / 3 Council seats = 5,820 signatures required

References:
AZ Constitution, Article VIII, Part 1, § 5
AZ Constitution, Article VIII, Part 1, § 1
A.R.S § 19-202
A.R.S. § 19-201
TCC, Article VIII, § 8.01

 The following is a City Referendum Overview Chart.  

Individuals are encouraged to review all election materials and laws with their individual attorneys to ensure compliance with current legal requirements. While the City Clerk’s Office will assist with procedural questions related to election filings, City Clerk's Office staff cannot render legal, financial or other professional advice.