Foster City Mayor Art Kiesel and Councilmember Phoebe Shin Venkat are running against each other for the District 1 City Council seat on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, the city's first election under district voting. Only District 1 and District 2 voters elect a council member this year, each for a four-year term ending in 2030.
Why it matters: One of two current council members will leave the District 1 race without the seat. Kiesel's term ends in December 2026; Venkat's current term runs to December 2028, according to the city.
District 1: Kiesel vs. Venkat
- Art Kiesel, listed on the ballot as Mayor. The Daily Journal reported he has served multiple council terms and points to his experience as the city deals with an August six-alarm fire, a cyberattack and long-term budget deficits.
- Phoebe Shin Venkat, listed as Nonprofit executive/Councilmember. She is one of the council's newest members, the Daily Journal reported.
The League of Women Voters held a District 1 candidate forum on Oct. 8 at City Council Chambers, 620 Foster City Blvd., the city said.
District 2: Jimenez unopposed
Councilmember Stacy Jimenez, an attorney, is the only qualified District 2 candidate. The write-in filing period closed Oct. 20.
How the switch works
- Foster City moved from at-large to district elections in 2025.
- Districts 3, 4 and 5 vote in 2028.
- Council members are paid $496 a month, according to the city.
Nearby: San Mateo-Foster City Measure W school bond explained. Full guide: Bay Area Election 2026.