Local Elections

Overview

The pages below are MRSC's primary resources on local elections, resources for candidates for elected office, and resources for newly elected city or county officials.

• Candidate Information Resources for Local Government Elective Offices — Information for individuals who are thinking of running for local elected office or applying to fill a vacancy in local elected office
• Local Government Ballot Measures — Overview of ballot propositions for local governments, including election timing, ballot titles, pro/con committees, voters' pamphlets, approval requirements, and more
• Local Elections Administration — Overview of local government election administration, including election calendar, voter eligibility, voting centers and ballot drop boxes, election security, election certification, and more
• District-Based Elections and Redistricting — Overview of district-based elections and the redistricting process for local governments
• Quick Guide for Newly Elected City Officials — Brief introduction to the core duties and responsibilities of newly elected city officials.
• Quick Guide for Newly Elected County Officials — Brief introduction to the core duties and responsibilities of newly elected county officials.
• Use of Public Facilities in Election Campaigns — Overview of the state law prohibiting the use of public facilities to support or oppose a ballot measure or an election campaign for public office by any local government official or employee.

MRSC Blogs

• Recent blogs about elections-related issues — Blogs are written by MRSC staff and contributors.

MRSC Publications

• Getting into Office: Being Elected or Appointed into Office in Washington Counties, Cities, Towns, and Special Districts — Addresses issues such as qualifying and running for elective office in cities, towns, counties, and special districts; assuming office; vacancies in office; and appointments to fill vacancies. Revised January 2020.
• Initiative and Referendum Guide for Washington Cities and Charter Counties — Reviews the powers of initiative and referendum as they are exercised in cities and charter counties in Washington. It includes information on how to adopt these powers and which types of municipal activities are subject to these powers. Revised September 2022.