Run for City Legislature in Salem, OR

Election Date: May 19, 2026
Filing Deadline: Mar 10, 2026

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Election Details

Office level: city
Length of term: 4 years
Commitment level: Part Time
Affiliation: nonpartisan
Typical salary: No compensation.
Filing period: Sep 11, 2025 - Mar 10, 2026
Positions:
Salem City Council - Ward 6
Salem City Council - Ward 4
Salem City Council - Ward 2
Salem City Council - Ward 8
Salem City Council - Ward 6
...

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

Must be a qualified elector who has resided in the city ward they seek to represent during the 12 months immediately preceding the election. Must be a registered voter and not a current employee of the city.

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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 Salem, OR?

File form SEL 101 and file by petition with more than 50 qualified signatures from voters residing within the ward in which the candidate resides and seeks to represent with form SEL 121 (must be approved before circulating) [note: all signatures must be numbered and verified by the city elections official and filed with SEL 339] Certify signatures with Marion County

Where do I submit my candidate paperwork?

Submit paperwork to the City Clerk's office.

Where is the filing office?

555 Liberty Street SE, Salem OR 97301.

How can I get in touch with the filing office?

You can contact the filing office by calling 503-588-6255.

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 includes a primary, but not a runoff election.

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