Lawton gears up for council seat elections, opens up candidate filing
As a requirement to serve on the council, you have to have been a registered voter in your ward for at least six months prior to filing.
The City of Lawton has announced dates for the next council seat election. Lawton voters will see a majority of council seats up for election later this year, which will be Wards 1,2, 6, 7, and 8 will have the opportunity to throw their vote in as to who they feel will best represent them. However, before a ballot can be cast, there has to be candidates.
With that said, the City of Lawton has made election packets available for those interested in serving on the council. The Ward 1 and 2 seats are included in this upcoming election due to them being appointed by the council after they were vacated by the previous holder. This means whoever takes home those seats will serve the remainder of the term until their would-be 2027 election, with the next full term beginning in 2028.
As far as the other seats on the council, both council members Bob Weger and Sherene L. Williams have the option to run again if they desire. However, Mayor Pro Tem Randy Warren is currently on his third and final term, meaning Ward 8 will inevitably see a new face on the dais.
As a requirement to serve on the council, you have to have been a registered voter in your ward for at least six months prior to filing. Council terms are for three years and representatives receive a $10,000 salary, among other benefits, with Mayor Pro Tem receiving an additional $2,500.
While many people think the mayor is the one who makes decisions for the city, it's actually those who sit on the council, as the mayor doesn’t get a vote in most decisions. These responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, attending meetings and communicating actively with your constituents.
On the city’s website, the mission of the council states as follows:
“The City Council approves all ordinances, resolutions, and contracts, including but not limited to property sales, acquisitions and leases as well as major purchases of materials, equipment and services required by the city. With the advice and assistance of the City Manager, the Council reviews proposals for community needs, initiates action for new programs and determines the ability of the city to provide financing for City activities.”
Election packets are available at the City Clerk's office. The actual filing period itself is from June 15 through June 17. The Primary Election will happen on August 25 (Tuesday) and, if necessary, the General Election will take place on November 3 (Tuesday). This election will see multiple council seats on the ballot.
