Running for City Council

Elected Members
The City Charter states the legislative power of the city, except as reserved by the Charter, shall be vested in a Council consisting of five members elected during a regular city election on the first Tuesday in November in each odd numbered year. At each regular election three Councilmen and those required to fill vacancies will be elected. The two receiving the highest number of votes will be elected for a four year term, with the other(s) to be elected to a two year term.
Mayor
At the first meeting of the Council following the regular City election, the Council will organize and elect one of its members to the office of Mayor and one to the office of Mayor Pro-Tem.
Eligibility for Council
  • Must be a resident of the city for at least one year immediately prior to the date of the election at which he or she is a candidate.
  • Must not be in default to the City of Portland.
Nominations
The candidates for elective office shall be nominated from the City at large by petitions which must be signed by not less than 24 nor more than 50 registered electors of the City.

Candidates must also file an Affidavit of Identity and Receipt of Filing and an Affidavit of Identity.