How to Run for City Council

All filing is done through the County and can be done online, in-person, by email or fax, or through regular mail.  You must be a registered voter and possess the qualifications as specified by law:

• RCW 35A.12.030
• RCW 35A.13.020
• RCW 29A.24.075

How to File:

1. A Declaration of Candidacy must be submitted to the County between May 15th and May 19th through one of the following options:
   • Online at https://www.whatcomcounty.us/1891/File-for-Office
   • In-Person at the Whatcom County Auditor's Office (by appointment only at this time): 311 Grand Ave, Suite 103, Bellingham, WA 98225
   • By Email or Fax: email: elections@co.whatcom.wa.us fax: 360-778-5101
   • By Mail (begins May 1st): Whatcom County Auditor, 311 Grand Ave, Suite 103, Bellingham, WA 98225
2. Pay filing fees at the time of filing.  A list of offices and fees can be found at: https://www.whatcomcounty.us/DocumentCenter/View/72544/2023-CFG
3. Once Filing has been approved you will receive a confirmation email with instructions on submitting your voters' pamphlet content.

Please note that once it is filed, a Declaration of Candidacy may not be altered except to update your contact information.  If you wish to withdraw your candidacy a withdrawal form must be submitted to the Auditor's Office by 4:30pm on Monday, May 22nd.  Filing fees are non-refundable.

For detailed information and resources please visit: https://www.whatcomcounty.us/1730/Candidates