Summer just arrived, but this is the last reminder for any Richmond residents interested in getting on the ballot this fall. It’s also one of the last nudges for potential town candidates.
Elected city and town officials provide leadership and oversight of government functions that affect the daily lives of local residents. From making decisions about responsible uses of taxpayer dollars to responding to citizen concerns, the people elected or re-elected in the fall could shape key aspects of the community for years.
Those who want to file as an independent or minor party candidate (other than Libertarian) for a city or town office must submit their petition by noon June 30 with the required number of signatures from potential voters. County officials will verify signatures.
Noon July 3 is the deadline to file a declaration to be a write-in candidate or be selected by Libertarian, Republican or Democratic parties to fill vacancies on a city election ballot. Caucuses are to take place July 3 to fill those vacancies.
However, residents of Wayne County towns with a population of less than 3,500 have a little more time to think about their elections.
Town residents must file to run by noon Aug. 1 to run for council or clerk-treasurer.
Last week, Sherry Ervin, Cambridge City’s Republican incumbent clerk-treasurer, committed to running again, and Gary Cole filed to join Cambridge City’s council as its Ward 5 member.
If candidates face opposition from within their party, a town convention will take place to finalize the ballot before the November election.
However, if no candidate is opposed, a town election can be canceled.
For more information about seeking an office or registering to vote, call 765-973-9304.
A version of this article appeared in the June 28 2023 print edition of the Western Wayne News.