Now is the time to begin the process for those interested in running for City Council.  Filing for Candidacy packets become available July 2, 2008, at the City Recorder’s Office, 1924 Council Street, during normal business hours. 

The citizens of Forest Grove will vote on November 4, 2008, General Election, to fill the three Council Member positions (Councilors Peter Truax, Elena Uhing and Victoria Lowe, are eligible for re-election).  

To qualify to serve as Council Member and place your name on the ballot, a person must be a registered voter who has resided within the City limits at least 12 months prior to the Election.  A person must also file a nomination petition and have at least 25 registered voters residing within the City limits sign the petition.  No person may sign more than one petition.  Each position carries a four-year term, expiring November 2012.  The positions are elected from the City at-large and candidates receiving the highest number of votes are elected.  There are no filing fees; however, if a candidate wishes to file a Candidate’s Statement for County Voters’ Pamphlet, the cost is $50. 

The City of Forest Grove has a Council-Manager form of government.  Elected officials decide the policies and goals for the City and a professional management team, under the direction of the City Manager, carries out the Council’s policies and objectives.  Council meetings are held in the evening twice a month on the second and fourth Monday of each month or as needed.  In addition to attending Council meetings, Councilors are asked to serve as a liaison to an advisory board, committee, or commission and attend those meetings at least once a month.  The position of Councilor receives a $100 monthly stipend and has an option to enroll in the City’s health insurance plan.

Interested persons must submit a prospective petition to the City Recorder no earlier than 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 6, 2008, and a completed petition no later than 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 26, 2008.  For more information, please contact the City Recorder at 503.992.3235 or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or refer to the link below.

City Councilor Candidate Information Packet