FAQs • Riverbank, CA • CivicEngage

What happens if some of the signatures I obtain on my nomination papers are not registered voters, or do not live within the City?: Invalid signatures will not be counted towards the 20 signatures required. Although only 20 valid Riverbank registered voter signatures are required, it is in your best interest to obtain more than 20 signatures and file your papers as early as possible. A "supplemental" paper may be issued if the filing period has not ended, which will allow you to obtain additional signatures. Failure to obtain 20 valid signatures will disqualify you from running for office.

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Elections

1. Is there a filing fee to file nomination papers?: No, the City of Riverbank does not require a filing fee for candidates wishing to file nomination papers.

2. Can I withdraw my nomination papers after filing them?: Yes, you may withdraw any time prior to the close of the nomination period. After that date, your name will appear on the ballot.

3. What happens if some of the signatures I obtain on my nomination papers are not registered voters, or do not live within the City?: Invalid signatures will not be counted towards the 20 signatures required. Although only 20 valid Riverbank registered voter signatures are required, it is in your best interest to obtain more than 20 signatures and file your papers as early as possible. A "supplemental" paper may be issued if the filing period has not ended, which will allow you to obtain additional signatures. Failure to obtain 20 valid signatures will disqualify you from running for office.

4. May I sign my own nomination papers?: Yes, you and any qualified Riverbank registered voter may sign your papers.

5. When will I be informed of my candidate qualification status?: The County Registrar of Voters qualifies or disqualifies the signatures obtained on the nomination papers. The City Clerk (Elections Official) will notified in writing via email, or postal service of your status.

6. Can I change or correct my Candidate’s Statement after it has been submitted?: No, candidate statements will be reviewed to ensure the requirements set forth by the Elections Code are met. Candidate statements submitted that do not meet the requirements will not be accepted. Statements that contain spelling/grammatical/punctuation errors will be printed as submitted. It is crucial that you review your statement carefully.

7. If I submit a Candidate’s Statement, and I change my mind, may I withdraw the statement?: Yes, the statement may be withdrawn, but not changed, during the period for filing nomination papers and until 5 p.m. of then next working day after the close of the nomination period.

8. Is there any cost in filing a Candidate Statement?: Yes, a deposit of $700 is required at the time you file your candidate statement. Any payment over the cost will be refunded and any shortage of the cost will be billed to you.

9. 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.

10. Are there any requirements with receiving or spending money to run for office or hold office?: Yes, the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) administers the regulations set forth by the Political Reform Act that governs all campaign financing and several other aspects of running for and holding office. There are filing forms requirements to report all the finances received and spent by candidates and committees, whether it is your personal money or donations received. Visit www.fppc.ca.gov for more information. Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC)

11. 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.