Juneau Assembly candidates face dual filing requirement, 10-day window

Juneau Assembly candidates must file with two separate government systems to qualify for the ballot. The City and Borough of Juneau has published guidance outlining eligibility requirements, filing steps, and what to expect once elected.

To serve on the Assembly, candidates must be 18 or older, registered voters in Juneau, and residents of the city for at least one year before the election. Local elections are nonpartisan, terms last three years, and members may serve up to three consecutive terms. All community members vote for all Assembly seats, with at least three positions appearing on the ballot each year.

Prospective candidates must submit a notarized Declaration of Candidacy and a nominating petition with at least 25 signatures from registered CBJ voters to the Municipal Clerk's Office. They also must file campaign and financial disclosures with the Alaska Public Offices Commission. Appointing a campaign treasurer for financial reporting to the commission is advisable. The filing window opens in mid-June and runs through July. Candidates must file in person at the Municipal Clerk's Office at City Hall.

The Assembly consists of nine members: the mayor and eight assembly members. Six members must reside in their elected districts, while two may live anywhere in the community.

Assembly members commit 10 to 15 hours per week and attend 5 to 9 meetings per month. "Staying connected with the community, listening to residents, and addressing time-sensitive issues outside of regular meetings are also essential parts of the role," according to CBJ's guidance. A successful campaign also requires organization, fundraising, volunteers, and communications, along with sustained engagement with residents, events, and local issues.