By By Adrienne McKenzie
With all the hype regarding the presidential elections in November, area residents may have forgotten about municipal elections, which will occur Aug. 26.
According to the Alabama League of Municipalities (ALM), those who wish to become an official with the city of Atmore will have to jump on the opportunity to qualify for election from July 1 through 15. Forms for qualifying will be available from the city clerk.
The ALM states that in order to qualify, candidates for mayor, councilmember or officer must be an eligible voter of the city or town and must reside within city limits during the term of office.
Candidates for election must have been a resident of the municipality for at least 90 days before the election, the ALM states.
According to the ALM, the clerk and current mayor have no right to judge any qualifications of candidates. If there are any questions raised regarding any candidates, a decision must be made in court.
All candidates must file a list of two to five individuals who will serve as their campaign committee to the probate judge. The form must be filed within five days of qualifying to run for office. The last possible day for this form to be turned in is July 21.
Candidates must also turn in a statement of economic interests with the municipal court along with their qualifying form.
Also in order to qualify for the municipal elections, candidates must pay a qualifying fee before the July 15 deadline has passed. If the fee is not paid, the candidate is considered unqualified and his or her name will not be placed on the ballot.
Municipal elections will be held Aug. 26. Candidates are permitted to appoint a poll watcher that will watch voting procedures in polling locations. The appointment of the watcher must be made in writing, signed by the candidate and turned in with election officials at the polling location.
If it is necessary, a runoff will be held on Oct. 7.
Candidates who win the election will take office on Nov. 3.