Candidate orientation held

Photos by Chelsea McNerney-Martinez
City Clerk Unita Vance hosted a candidate orientation Monday evening for residents interested in running for mayor or for one of the two city council positions that will be on the ballot this November. Vance, assisted by former interim clerk Judy Egbert, informed potential candidates about the petition process, fair campaign practices and campaign financing regulations. Vance also provided an overview of what candidates can expect if elected to council or mayor and invited attendees to sit at the front of the room where council sits, although only a couple took the opportunity. Candidates can now begin gathering signatures; 25 valid signatures of Monte Vista residents are required to successfully be included on the ballot. Residents can sign no more than one petition for mayor and no more than two petitions for council, reflecting the number of open positions. The last day for candidates turn in signatures is Aug. 28, with an additional five days through September 1 to get more signatures if any are invalid. Petitions were picked up by Victor Sigala, Dale Becker, Jim Poston and Eugene Farish. Bob Bryning and Gary Johnson were also present, observing the orientation. No candidates have made formal declarations.
Above: Victor Sigala and Dale Becker listen to City Clerk Unita Vance discuss campaign regulations.
Right: Judy Egbert, Gary Johnson, Eugene Farish, Bob Bryning and Jim Poston listen to campaign finance regulations.