Information for Prospective Candidates
Filing Period
The next election for Mayor and Councilors will be held November 3, 2026.
The filing window for non-incumbent candidates is June 3, 2026, to August 25, 2026. It is recommended that all forms be submitted by August 20, 2026.
The filing window for incumbent candidates is June 3, 2026, to August 18, 2026. It is recommended that all forms be submitted by August 13, 2026.
Read the 2026 Nomination Petition Packet for full details, including filing deadlines. Printed copies of the packet will be available for pick up at City Hall lobby, the Corvallis Community Center (C3), and the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library.
An appointment to turn in in your paper is recommended. Email city.recorder@corvallisoregon.gov for more information.
Information Session
An Election Information Session was held on June 8, 2026, for prospective candidates to learn more about the filing process. View the Election Information Session recording.
When are elections for Mayor and Councilors held?
Elections for Councilors are held every two years during November General Elections (2024, 2026, etc.). The Mayor is elected for a four-year term, meaning elections for Mayor are held every other November General Election (2026, 2030, etc.).
What are the qualifications for candidacy?
In order to qualify for elective office, prospective candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Be a registered voter. Candidates for elective offices must be a registered voter of Corvallis, Oregon.
- Have one year of residency. Candidates for elective offices must have resided in Corvallis one year immediately preceding the election at which the nominee is a candidate.
- Reside in area of representation. Candidates for Council must reside in the ward from which the candidate seeks nomination at the time the nomination petition is filed.
What is the filing process?
Prospective candidates submit a filing form to the City Recorder during the designated filing period. Once the initial filing form is verified, prospective candidates receive approval to collect signatures from registered voters. If a sufficient number of signatures are collected and verified by the filing deadline, the nomination petition is considered complete. Detailed guidance on how to file for office is published on the City website in early summer during General Election years.
If you have questions about running for office, please contact the City Recorder at 541-766-6901 or city.recorder@corvallisoregon.gov.
