FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is your office open during the lunch hour?

YES.  Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.  We will be open until 5 p.m. on the final day of candidate filing.

Is there a filing fee involved in my candidacy?

NO.  The City of Riverbank does not require a filing fee for candidates wishing to file nomination papers.  However, a deposit of $700 will be required to cover the cost of printing, and translation of the Candidate’s Statement if you choose to file one.

What if I change my mind about being a candidate after filing nomination papers?

You may withdraw as a candidate at any time PRIOR to the close of the nomination period, which is August 8, 2008, 5:00 p.m. or  if the nomination period is extended, August 13, 2008, 5:00 p.m.  After that date, you are NOT permitted to withdraw officially, and your name will appear on the ballot.

May a second party pickup or deliver my Declaration of Candidacy for me?

YES.  A candidate's representative must present a letter of specific authorization signed by the candidate.  However, candidates are urged to file in person to ensure the oath of allegiance is administered  and problems are immediately rectified should any arise.

What happens if some of the signatures I obtain on my nomination papers are not registered voters or do not live within the City? 

Twenty (20) valid signatures are required to qualify as a candidate.  Filing early, may allow time for the County Clerk to check the signatures and notify you of any insufficiencies.  You may then have an opportunity to circulate a Nomination Paper to qualify yourself as a candidate.

May I sign my own nomination papers?

YES.  You and any qualified relatives may sign your nomination papers.

When will I be informed of my candidate qualification status?

You will be informed, in writing, as soon as your nomination paper is qualified or disqualified by the County Clerk.

Can I change or correct my Candidate’s Statement after it has been submitted?

NO.  Please check your Candidate’s Statement carefully before it is submitted.

If I submit a Candidate’s Statement, and I change my mind, may I withdraw the statement?

YES.  You may withdraw your Candidate’s Statement after it is filed at any time before 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August 8 or if extended, on Wednesday, August 13, 2008.  A statement may NOT be resubmitted after it is withdrawn.

When will the official results of the election be received and certified as correct?

The Registrar of Voters has 28 days to canvass the election and certify the results. 

When officeholders or candidates receive contributions of $1,000 or more, are they required to have a committee?

YES.  An officeholder or candidate who receives contributions (including loans) that total $1,000 or more in a calendar year must file a Statement of Organization, Form 410.

If I am only spending my own money on my campaign, do I still need to file a Campaign Statement?

YES.  You are still subject to the filing requirements of the Political Reform Act.

Must a committee wait until $1,000 is received to file a Statement of Organization?

NO.  A committee may file a Statement of Organization before it actually qualifies.  “Not yet qualified” should be entered in the “Date Qualified” space on the form.

Why is there so much paperwork involved in being a candidate?

State Law requires that you file the appropriate materials to assure the voters that you are fully disclosing all information pertinent to your candidacy.  The purpose of the requirements is to ensure a fair and democratic electoral process.