How to run for office in Lakeland, FL

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Photo via @missmarriahadeline | Graphic via 6AM City

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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 Sept. 17.

Current opportunities to serve:

  • Mayor
  • At Large: Seat 1
  • District C: Southwest
  • District D: Southeast
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 be 4-year terms. The term of office for council members is staggered, meaning half of the positions are elected every 2 years. If elected, these candidates will serve until Dec. 31, 2025.

Do you qualify to run?

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 + county at the time of election
  • Able to commit to a 4-year term

The City of Lakeland’s qualifying period takes place from noon Sept. 13 to noon Sept. 17, 2021. In order to apply, a qualifying fee of $250 + 1% of the position’s annual salary, $696.00 for the Mayor’s seat and $547.33 for a Commissioner’s seat, is required.

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

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