Candidates file for elected offices for the City of Austin

Filings for elected offices in the City of Austin opened on Tuesday, and three candidates have already filed for the office of Mayor.

Current Mayor Tom Stiehm announced at Monday’s City Council meeting that he will not be seeking a sixth term as Mayor in November.  Since that announcement, current Second Ward Councilman Steve King, current At-Large Councilman Jeff Austin and Brian Heimer have all filed for the seat.  Also up for election in November are the seats of First Ward Councilwoman Laura Helle, Second Ward Councilman Steve King and Third Ward Councilman Paul Fischer.  All are four-year terms.  Oballa Oballa, a member of the Austin Human Rights Commission and a recent Honorary Austin City Council member has field for the seat in the First Ward, Michael Postma has filed for the city council seat in Ward 2 and Paul Fischer has field for his seat in the Third Ward. 

Also up for election in November are three four-year terms on the city’s Utility Board, and those positions are currently being held by Thomas Baulder, Tyler Hulsebus and Kris Johnson.  

Those interested in running for an Austin city office for the 2020 election are reminded that they can apply for candidacy until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 2nd.  The cost to file is $25.  Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, there are filing options available.  Austin City Clerk Ann Kasel stated that although City Hall is closed, candidates may still file at the City Clerk’s Office at City Hall. A sign will be placed on the door with a number candidates can call to be let in. Candidates may also make an appointment with Kasel by calling 507-437-9943 or emailing [email protected].

The Minnesota Secretary of State has an Affidavit of Candidacy that may be found online at https://www.sos.state.mn.us/media/1027/affidavit-of-candidacy.pdf. Affidavits must be signed in front of a notary or City Clerk staff. Kasel stated that candidates may email a completed affidavit that has been signed in front of a notary to [email protected].

Candidates that email affidavits are responsible for arranging payment of the $25 filing fee.