Sebastopol Council Election: Maurer, Woodruff and Hoff Lead Early Three-Seat Count

SEBASTOPOL, Sonoma County — November 4, 2026. The early vote count in Sebastopol’s City Council election placed Sandra Maurer, James Woodruff and Ian Hoff in the first three positions in a race for three seats, according to Sonoma County returns displayed by KQED.

Initial candidate vote selections

Sandra Maurer had 1,040 selections (20.9%), James Woodruff 976 (19.6%), and Ian Hoff 961 (19.3%). Additional candidates were on the ballot. The separation between Woodruff and Hoff was just 15 selections, but the third-place margin over candidates outside the first three must be assessed with the full candidate list and further ballots.

How the election works

Because this was a vote-for-three contest, each voter could support more than one candidate. The percentages listed on election-results dashboards describe the proportion of total candidate selections, not unique-voter turnout. The early ranking should not be characterized as a final, certified election.

Why residents should follow updates

Council members help make local decisions about budgets, streets, zoning, housing and essential services. Sonoma County will continue processing eligible ballots after Election Night. Results will be updated before certification.

Sources: KQED local election results and Sonoma County Registrar of Voters. Reported numbers are a preliminary snapshot reviewed November 4.

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