8 Things to Know Before Running for Local Office
September 27, 2023
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JoinRun for City Legislature in El Cerrito City, CA
Election Date: Nov 3, 2026Filing Deadline: Aug 7, 2026
Election Details
- Office level: city
- Length of term: 4 years
- Commitment level: Part Time
- Affiliation: nonpartisan
- Typical salary: $5,292.00 / year
- Is this a runoff election? No
- Is this a primary election? No
- Filing period: Jul 13, 2026 - Aug 7, 2026
- Positions: El Cerrito City Council
Job description
The City Legislature is the municipality's governing body, responsible for voting on ordinances and policies, and often is in charge of hiring a city manager.
Eligibility requirements
Candidate must be a U.S. citizen, a registered voter, and otherwise qualified to vote for that office at the time that nomination papers are issued to the person.
Filing instructions
Filing office address: 555 Escobar St, Martinez, CA 94553
Filing phone number: 925-335-7800
Paperwork instructions: Submit paperwork to the county registrar of voters' office.
Filing requirements: Declaration of Candidacy and Nomination papers with number of signatures depending on the office. Filing fee equal to 1% of the first year salary as of the first day on which a candidate may circulate petitions in-lieu of filing fees. If not excepting money from others or spending less than $1000 of personal money, must file: Form 501 - Candidate Intention Statement Form 470 - Officeholder and Candidate Campaign Statement--Short Form. If not, Form 501 - Candidate Statement Intention (unless previously filed). Form 410 - Statement of Organization within ten days of receiving $1,000 in contributions (including personal funds).
FAQ
How often is City Legislature elected?
The position of City Legislature is typically elected every 4 years.
What does it mean for an election to be nonpartisan?
Nonpartisan elections do not require candidates to declare a party affiliation.
What are the filing requirements to get on the ballot in El Cerrito City, CA?
Declaration of Candidacy and Nomination papers with number of signatures depending on the office. Filing fee equal to 1% of the first year salary as of the first day on which a candidate may circulate petitions in-lieu of filing fees. If not excepting money from others or spending less than $1000 of personal money, must file: Form 501 - Candidate Intention Statement Form 470 - Officeholder and Candidate Campaign Statement--Short Form. If not, Form 501 - Candidate Statement Intention (unless previously filed). Form 410 - Statement of Organization within ten days of receiving $1,000 in contributions (including personal funds).
Where do I submit my candidate paperwork?
Submit paperwork to the county registrar of voters' office.
Where is the filing office?
555 Escobar St, Martinez, CA 94553.
How can I get in touch with the filing office?
You can contact the filing office by calling 925-335-7800.
How do I get started running for City Legislature?
You can start running for City Legislature by checking to ensure you meet all filing deadlines and requirements. Next, you can prepare to file for office and start planning your campaign strategy. Get in touch with our team of campaign experts for help with any step of the campaign process!
Is there a primary or runoff election for this office?
The next election for City Legislature does not include a primary or runoff election.
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