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How to run for office in Lakeland

Are you eligible to run for office in Lakeland? Learn how you can get started, as well as what positions are available this year, here.

August 31, 2023 • 
Rilee Delgado
Copy of LAL-General Hero

Photo via @missmarriahadeline | Graphic via 6AM City

Table of Contents
Current opportunities to serve
Do you qualify to run?

So, you want to run for office? Good for you. Here’s how you get started.

The City of Lakeland’s filing period is now open for interested candidates to apply to run for public office, and closes on Friday, Sept. 22 at 12 p.m.

Current opportunities to serve

  • At Large: Seat 2
  • District A: Northwest
  • District B: Northeast
Map of commissioner districts

City of Lakeland Commissioners Districts, North | Map via The City of Lakeland

map of commissioner districts 2

City of Lakeland Commissioners Districts, South | Map via The City of Lakeland

All of the elected positions will include four-year terms. The term of office for council members is staggered, meaning half of the positions are elected every two years. If elected, these candidates will serve until Dec. 31, 2027.

Do you qualify to run?

The City of Lakeland’s qualifying period takes place from 12 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 18 to 12 p.m. on Sept. 22, 2023. You can apply to run for public office if you are:

  • At least 18 years old
  • Currently registered to vote
  • A resident of your district + Lakeland as of January 2023
  • Able to commit to a four-year term

Contact the City Clerk’s Office for an appointment + application packet.