By Tanya Smith, City Secretary
In my many years as a city secretary, I can’t count the times I’ve heard a newly elected city council member ask:
- “What do you mean I can’t (fill in the blank)?”
- “I have to do WHAT?”
In College Station, city council members devote many long hours to fulfill their responsibilities — and aren’t paid a dime. Before they can serve, they also endure campaigns that take a lot of time, energy, and money.
But what happens after they’re elected?
City Council Places 4 and 6 will be at stake in the Nov. 2 election, each carrying a three-year term. If you’re considering running, we invite you to attend the free City Council 101 seminar at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 30, in the council chambers at city hall.
And don’t worry — attendance does not obligate you to run!
Our goal is to help potential candidates make informed decisions about running and to gain an accurate understanding of what’s expected if they are elected. The program educates candidates about the requirements, duties, and limitations of the office. We’ll also discuss open meeting laws, conflicts of interest, the role of city staff, and critical issues facing the community.
The filing period to run for council is July 17-Aug. 16. Candidates must be at least 18 years old, U.S. citizens, qualified Texas voters, and College Station residents for at least one year before Election Day.
For more details, contact me at 979-764-3580 or tdsmith@cstx.gov.
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