San Clemente preliminary ballot results: No leads on Measure M

SAN CLEMENTE, California — No leads on Measure M in the Orange County Registrar of Voters’ election-night returns for November 3, 2026. The dashboard was marked updated at 11:00 p.m. Pacific. These are unofficial figures, and this report does not declare any measure adopted or defeated.

What voters were deciding

The initiative proposes a one-percentage-point sales tax for 10 years and two funds devoted to beach erosion and fire-related hazards. The ballot language projects about $15 million annually and specifies uses including sand replenishment, erosion control, beach access, water quality and fire protection or prevention. It calls for independent audits and public spending disclosure.

Reported votes

Measure M: Natural hazards sales tax citizens initiative

Yes: 6,493 votes (37.77%).
No: 10,699 votes (62.23%).

The reported margin between the two choices was 4,206 votes.

What happens next

The percentages describe votes reported for this measure in this release; they are not a turnout figure or a count of every registered voter. Additional ballot processing and the official canvass can change totals and margins. A numerical lead in an incomplete release should not be read as a final legal determination of passage.

Readers should use the dated figures above when comparing later updates. Any implementation would depend on the final outcome and the measure’s provisions; this preliminary report does not establish an effective date.

Sources: Orange County Registrar of Voters official results page and its results dashboard (November 3, 2026, 11:00 p.m. Pacific); measure background; official measure designations.

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