Recall of Fairfax council members failing in early returns

"With about 2,800 votes counted Tuesday, the bid to recall two Fairfax council members, Mayor Lisel Blash and Vice Mayor Stephanie Hellman, was failing. The faction opposing Blash's recall had 54.28% of the vote, while the no vote for recalling Hellman had 53.74%. A simple majority in favor is required for the recalls to succeed. Fairfax has 5,999 registered voters. The town has a population of about 7,500."

"Sean Fitzgerald, one of the recall's leaders, however, wasn't conceding defeat. "There are still hundreds of votes left to count in Fairfax and we are committed to ensuring every last voice is heard before the outcome is determined," he said via email on Tuesday night. "Regardless of the final result, we are not going anywhere," Fitzgerald said. "Our movement will remain fully engaged in local government and ensure that the interests of our residents are represented by the Town Council.""

With about 2,800 votes counted, the recall bids to remove Mayor Lisel Blash and Vice Mayor Stephanie Hellman were failing, with opposing votes at 54.28% for Blash and 53.74% for Hellman; a simple majority was required. Fairfax has 5,999 registered voters and about 7,500 residents. Recall organizers said hundreds of votes remained to be counted and pledged continued engagement in local government. Both officials do not plan to seek re-election in November 2027. The recalls originated from November 2022 rent stabilization and eviction-protection ordinances, and a May 2024 recall attempt previously failed after petitions were denied.

Read at The Mercury News