3 Seats Open In Sonoma's First District Council Election

SONOMA, CA — For the first time, Sonoma residents will elect City Council members by district instead of citywide, and the race officially begins July 13, when candidates can start filing for the Nov. 3 general election.

The city's first-ever district-based City Council election gives voters a representative from their own neighborhood instead of electing council members citywide.

In 2026, voters in Districts 1, 3, and 5 will elect City Council representatives.

Residents interested in serving on the Sonoma City Council may file nomination papers beginning July 13 for the Nov. 3 general election.

The nomination period will remain open through Aug. 7.

Candidates must be registered voters residing in the district they seek to represent when nomination papers are issued.

Districts 2 and 4 will hold elections in 2028, establishing a staggered election cycle for the five-member City Council.

The transition to district-based elections does not change how the mayor is selected. The mayor and vice mayor will continue to be nominated and elected by the City Council from among its members and will continue to serve the community at large.

Prospective candidates and residents can use the city's Council Districts webpage to identify their City Council district and learn when their district will vote.

Potential candidates should contact the City Clerk's Office to schedule an appointment to obtain nomination materials and review candidate filing requirements.

Appointments may be scheduled by calling 707-933-2216 or emailing elections@sonomacity.org.

Information about district boundaries, candidate eligibility, election procedures, the online District Finder, and downloadable district maps is available on the City of Sonoma's website.