Filing period for district office candidacies opens in Tehachapi

Tehachapi residents interested in running for district office can now begin the process of filing their declarations of candidacy. The filing period officially opened on July 15, 2024, and candidates have until 5 p.m. on August 9, 2024, to submit their paperwork to the Elections Division. If an incumbent does not file by this deadline, a 5-day extension will allow non-incumbent candidates to file. However, this extension does not apply if the incumbent is termed out or if the office is vacant.

Steps to file for candidacy:

1. Obtain forms: Starting July 15, 2024, candidates can obtain the necessary forms for the declaration of candidacy from the Elections Division.

2. Complete and submit forms: The completed declaration of candidacy must be filed with the Elections Division by August 9, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

3. Extension period: If the incumbent fails to file, non-incumbents can file during a 5-day extension period.

4. Conflicting offices: Candidates should note that they cannot file for more than one district office, including a county board of education office, if there is a conflict of interest. More information on conflicting offices can be found at fppc.ca.gov. The Elections Division does not provide legal advice.

Open seats in Tehachapi:

1. City Council

• Seats available: Office City Treasurer, Office of City Clerk. District 2 and 3 are 4-year terms. District 5 is a 2 year term.

• Responsibilities: The City Council oversees city policies, budgets, and ordinances. Council members represent the interests of Tehachapi residents and work on local issues such as public safety, infrastructure, and community development.

2. School Board

• Seats available: Three 4-year terms district 1, 3 and 7. Two-year term for district 4

• Responsibilities: School Board members are responsible for setting educational policies, approving budgets, and overseeing the local school district. They ensure the quality of education and address concerns from parents, teachers, and students.

3. Water District Board

• Seats available: Two 4-year terms for division 2 & 4. One 2-year term for division 3.

• Responsibilities: The Water District Board manages the water resources and supply for the community. Board members work on water conservation measures, infrastructure projects, and policies to ensure sustainable water use.

4. Healthcare District Board

• Seats available: Two 4-year terms and one 2-year term at large

• Responsibilities: The Healthcare District Board oversees the healthcare services and facilities within the district. They work to improve access to medical care and manage the district's health-related initiatives.

5. Community Services District (CSD) Boards

Bear Valley Community Services District

• Seats available: Two 4-years terms and One 2-year term.

• Responsibilities: This board manages services such as parks, recreation, water, and wastewater treatment within the Bear Valley community.

Golden Hills Community Services District

• Seats available: Three 4-year terms.

• Responsibilities: The Golden Hills CSD Board oversees services like road maintenance, water, and recreation for the Golden Hills area.

Mountain Meadows Community Services District

• Seats available: Two 4-year terms

• Responsibilities: This board handles services including water, wastewater, and recreational facilities in the Mountain Meadows community.

Stallion Springs Community Services District

• Seats available: Two 4-year terms

• Responsibilities: The Stallion Springs CSD Board manages services such as public safety, water, and recreation in the Stallion Springs area.

For more detailed information on each position and the candidacy process, potential candidates are encouraged to review the candidate handbook available at http://www.kernvote.com/.

This election cycle offers a significant opportunity for Tehachapi residents to contribute to their community by serving in various district offices. Those interested are urged to begin the filing process promptly to ensure their candidacy is considered.