Candidate Filing

In 2026, two City Council seats and the Mayor will be on the ballot. The seats are for four-year terms and are non-partisan.

Eligibility Requirements

Candidates should be sure to review the eligibility requirements before filing:

  • must be eligible to vote in Minnesota
  • must have not filed for another office at the upcoming primary or general election
  • must be 21 years of age or more upon assuming office
  • must have maintained residence in their district for at least 30 days before the general election

Filing Period

The filing period begins Tuesday, May 19, 2026 and ends Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at 5 p.m.

Note: City offices will be closed May 25, 2026 in observance of Memorial Day.

File for Office

To file for office, candidates must complete and submit a notarized Affidavit of Candidacy with the City Clerk's Office. Campaign filing forms are available online via the Secretary of State's Office.

Filings are accepted in-person at City Hall during regular business hours and until 5:00 p.m. on the final day of filing. City Hall is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and is located at 3830 Pilot Knob Road. The City Clerk's office is located on the 2nd Floor in Administration. Notary service is available. A $5 filing fee is required upon receipt of the affidavit.

Upon filing the affidavit of candidacy, the City Clerk will provide candidates with an informational packet to help keep track of important dates, required financial reports, and other documents.

Candidates who file for office must comply with the Minnesota Fair Campaign Practices Act and financial reporting requirements. Visit the Minnesota Secretary of State's website to learn more about these requirements.

MN Secretary of State Candidate Packet
City Affidavit of Candidacy Guide

Campaign Sign Regulations

State, county, and local municipalities have varying regulations on campaign sign use. See Election Sign Regulations

Withdrawing Candidacy

If a candidate wishes to withdraw their candidacy, the deadline to do so is Thursday, June 4, 2026 at 5 p.m.

Questions

Please call 651-675-5034 with questions regarding candidate filings. Additional information is also available at the Minnesota Secretary of State's office website.