The Upcoming Gardena Election: Deadlines, Vote Centers, and Ballot Return Information

GARDENA, CA (April 9, 2026) Gardena is preparing for a Statewide Direct Primary Election on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. Residents are encouraged to become familiar with their voting options as early as possible, including vote-by-mail, secure ballot drop boxes, and in-person vote centers.

What voters will see on the ballot in Gardena

There are five elected positions open in the upcoming election:

Mayor
Two City Council seats
City Treasurer
City Clerk

The office of Mayor is on the ballot, and incumbent Mayor Tasha Cerda is seeking re-election.

VOTING METHODS

Vote by Mail
All active registered voters will receive a vote-by-mail ballot.
Ballots are scheduled to begin mailing by May 4, 2026.
Voters can return their ballot:
By mail (using the provided return envelope)
At a secure drop box
At a vote center
Secure Vote-by-Mail Drop Boxes in Gardena (24 hours)
Voters may use the following secure ballot drop box locations in Gardena.

Rowley Park Auditorium: Drop box available 24 hours, May 4 - June 2, 2026
Nakaoka Community Center: Drop box available around the clock, May 4 - June 2, 2026

Vote in Person at Gardena Vote Centers
Gardena voters may also choose to vote in person at the following vote centers.

Rush Gymnasium (11-Day Vote Center)
May 23 you can try this out - June 1, 2026: 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
June 2, 2026 (Election Day): 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Rowley Park Gymnasium (4-Day Vote Center)
May 30 - June 1, 2026: 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
June 2, 2026 (Election Day): this 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Amestoy Elementary School (4-Day Vote Center)
May 30 - June 1, 2026: 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
June 2, 2026 (Election Day): 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

DEADLINES TO KNOW

Last day to register to vote: May 18, 2026
If the registration deadline is missed, you may still be able to register and vote through conditional voter registration starting May 19, 2026.

OFFICIAL ELECTION RESOURCES

For official election updates, voter registration information, vote center details, and voting instructions, residents can visit the City of Gardena's election information page or the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk website. Questions may also be submitted to the Gardena City Clerk's Office at (310) 217-9565.