8 Things to Know Before Running for Local Office
September 27, 2023
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JoinRun for City Legislature in Bismarck City, ND
Election Date: Nov 3, 2026Filing Deadline: Aug 31, 2026
Election Details
- Office level: city
- Length of term: 4 years
- Commitment level: Part Time
- Affiliation: nonpartisan
- Typical salary: $13,785.72/year
- Is this a runoff election? No
- Is this a primary election? No
- Filing period: Apr 3, 2026 - Aug 31, 2026
- Positions: Bismarck City CommissionFort Yates School BoardBismarck City Park District BoardBismarck City Council PresidentBismarck City Judge
Job description
Administrative decisions for the county are not made by full-time employees of the county, but by an elected governing board of three or five Commissioners. They serve as the elected ruling body of the county government structure and typically meet once to twice a month as determined by the commission. They are responsible for the county budget, county road department, social service administration and many other county concerns. Commissioners in North Dakota can be elected at-large or in commissioner districts, depending upon the county.
Eligibility requirements
Candidates must be over age 18 and have been a resident of the City of Bismarck for at least nine (9) months prior to the election.
Filing instructions
Filing office address: 221 N 5th Street Bismarck, ND 58506
Filing phone number: 701-355-1300
Paperwork instructions: Submit paperwork to the City Auditor's office.
Filing requirements: On Monday, January 1, 2018, candidates for public offices may start collecting signatures. Packets are ready to be picked up at the office of City Administration at 221 North 5th Street. Candidates are required to file a Petition/Certificate of Nomination (SFN 02704) with at least 300 signatures, and a Statement of Interests (SFN 10172). Forms are available on the ND Secretary of State's web site, www.nd.gov/sos/electvote/elections/forms or by contacting the City Administrator's Office at 701-355-1300.
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 Bismarck City, ND?
On Monday, January 1, 2018, candidates for public offices may start collecting signatures. Packets are ready to be picked up at the office of City Administration at 221 North 5th Street. Candidates are required to file a Petition/Certificate of Nomination (SFN 02704) with at least 300 signatures, and a Statement of Interests (SFN 10172). Forms are available on the ND Secretary of State's web site, www.nd.gov/sos/electvote/elections/forms or by contacting the City Administrator's Office at 701-355-1300.
Where do I submit my candidate paperwork?
Submit paperwork to the City Auditor's office.
Where is the filing office?
221 N 5th Street Bismarck, ND 58506.
How can I get in touch with the filing office?
You can contact the filing office by calling 701-355-1300.
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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