BECOMING A CANDIDATE

SO YOU WANT TO RUN FOR CITY COUNCIL

It takes a lot of time, effort and money to run in a municipal election. It’s even harder if you’re running against an incumbent, who has both name recognition and a known track record. Here are several tips for those trying to get started.

1 Plan ahead — way ahead:

Don’t wait until the opening day of election registration in May to throw your name out there. Start at least a year out from voting day, said Velma Morgan of Operation Black Vote — you need time to start assembling a team, canvassing and getting your finances in order. The incumbent has had four years to get their name out there. “I think a lot of the time, we get into the game a little too late,” said Morgan.

2 Get involved:

Get out into the community and attend BIA and city council meetings. Introduce yourself to voters, so you’re not just another name on the ballot. If you’re a woman or a visible minority and unsure of where to start, Lilly Obina, who ran twice for council, suggested turning to a resource like the City for All Women Initiative, a group that works with municipal decision-makers for a more inclusive and diverse city.

3 Get the basics down pat:

Morgan said people often underestimate exactly how much money, people and resources it takes to run a “basic successful campaign.” You might have to take time off work to canvas, raise enough money to sustain yourself and buy things like signs and airtime, or organize phone banking. Make lots of lists. Don’t be afraid to ask people who have done it before.