It is time for candidates for office to file papers, says Supervisor Baumgart

Spring Election - If you want to run for local public office in the spring election, this is your time. Check with your town, village, city or county clerk to make sure which positions are open and what needs to be done before you start the process – such as first signing a Declaration of Candidacy. Starting date for circulating nomination papers was Dec. 1. They must be returned no later than Tuesday, Jan. 5.

If a Primary Election needs to be held, it will take place on Feb. 16 with the Spring Election taking place on April 6.

Sheboygan County Board has all 34 supervisors up for election. They serve two-year terms. From a minimum of 50 to a maximum of 100 signatures must be collected from within the district in which you will be running. The county clerk has maps available for each supervisory district showing specific district lines.

The city of Sheboygan will have eight Alderpersons up for election. Interested candidates can stop at the City Clerk’s office at 828 Center Ave., 2nd floor, to file the required information needed. If you have questions, you can call the City Clerk’s office directly at 459-3361.

City of Plymouth will have four Alderpersons up for election and the position of Mayor. City Clerk’s office hours are from 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. If you have questions, call 893-1271, ext. 317.

City of Sheboygan Falls will have elections for Mayor, Municipal Judge and three Alderpersons.

Information on nomination papers, Declaration of Candidacy, or other questions can be provided by visiting the City Clerk’s office or by calling 467-7900.

Those living in a town or village should check to see what positions are open. Some units of government elect their Town or Village Clerk –others are appointed. Towns elect a Chairperson, Supervisors, and Constables. Villages elect a President and Trustees.

As a member of the Sheboygan County Board, it is important that I encourage people to run for public office. It is good for the democratic process to have people bring in new ideas on how they think a job can be done better. While it is always good to come to government meetings to voice one’s opinion, it is oftentimes better to become a leader and decision maker. You can make a difference.