City

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.

By Rilee Delgado
, March 21, 2024
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Photo via @missmarriahadeline | Graphic via 6AM City

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

The City of Lakeland’s filing period will open soon for interested candidates to apply to run for public office, and it will close in September 2025 ahead of the November 2025 vote.

Upcoming opportunities to serve

  • Mayor
  • At Large: Seat 1
  • District C: Southwest
  • District D: Southeast

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

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, 2029.

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 + Lakeland
  • Able to commit to a four-year term

Contact the City Clerk’s Office for an appointment + application packet once the filing period opens.

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Rilee Delgado
Rilee moved to Lakeland, Florida from her hometown of Sioux Falls, South Dakota in 2016. In 2021, she joined 6AM City as a City Editor for LALtoday. Now, she supports 6AM’s growing markets as a Managing Editor. Rilee’s interests include reading, teaching yoga + pilates, and taking her dog for walks around Lake Hollingsworth.