Bedford residents interested in making a difference at the local level will have the opportunity to run for City Council this fall. Seats in Wards 1, 3, and 5 will be on the ballot for the November 4, 2025 General Election. Here’s what potential candidates need to know.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, candidates must be at least 18 years old by election day and registered to vote in Ohio. Bedford’s city charter also requires candidates to have lived in the City of Bedford for at least two years before the election and in the specific ward they wish to represent for at least one year. Candidates must continue to live in that ward and remain a registered voter there throughout their term.
Council members may not hold any other public office while serving, with the exception of Notary Public or service in the State Militia.
Filing Deadline and Process
Because Bedford’s council elections are nonpartisan, all candidates appear on the November ballot—there is no primary. The filing deadline is Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at 4:00 p.m.
To appear on the ballot, candidates must:
- Obtain an official petition packet from the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections at 1803 Superior Avenue in Cleveland. Staff members there can assist with completing the forms and provide clear instructions.
- Gather signatures from registered voters in the ward they wish to represent. Candidates must collect signatures equal to 10% of voters from the previous election in that ward:
- Ward 1: 65 signatures
- Ward 3: 51 signatures
- Ward 5: 62 signatures
- Submit all completed forms in person to the Board of Elections by the August 6 deadline.
- Pay a $45 filing fee at the time of petition submission. This fee applies whether appearing on the ballot or running as a write-in candidate.
Candidates must also sign and date a written acceptance of nomination, acknowledging the individuals who signed their petition. Voters may only sign one petition per office, and all signers must live in the same ward as the candidate.
Campaign Finance Requirements
Any candidate who plans to raise or spend money must first establish a campaign finance committee. Once the committee is registered, the candidate is permitted to begin fundraising and spending. Several campaign finance reports must be submitted throughout the year, detailing all expenditures and contributions. The required forms and filing schedule are included in the petition packet.
Getting Started
Prospective candidates should contact or visit the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections as early as possible to pick up a petition packet and receive guidance on completing the process correctly. Running for City Council offers a meaningful opportunity for residents of Wards 1, 3, and 5 to serve their community and help shape Bedford’s future through public service.
