The first day to circulate petitions for candidates seeking election in the April 6, 2027 Consolidated Election is August 25, 2026. The candidate circulation date applies to offices that do not require a primary. Candidates can take advantage by getting an early start on their petitions ahead of the candidate filing window, which begins Monday, November 16, and ends Monday, November 23.

For candidates running in the February 23, 2027, Consolidated Primary Election, petition circulation begins on July 28, 2026. The filing window begins on Monday, October 19, and ends on Monday, October 26.

For more information about this article, please contact Tressler attorney Jim Hess at jhess@tresslerllp.com.

About the Author

Jim represents various local government entities, primarily focusing on day-to-day operations for cities, villages, fire protection districts, park districts, and library districts. Jim’s practice includes handling intergovernmental agreements, ordinances, contract negotiations, administrative proceedings, demolition issues, employment, Open Meetings Act issues, Freedom of Information Act matters, tort liability defense, and ethics. Jim also handles a variety of land use matters, including Tax Increment Financing districts, redevelopment agreements, annexations, and comprehensive planning. Click here to read Jim’s full attorney bio.