After a year postponement, residents seeking to run for elected positions in their city can qualify through June 24.

Qualifying opened on June 10 and closes at 5 p.m. on June 24, with hours being 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Candidates qualify through the city clerk's office in their respective city.

Municipal elections are held every four years in August, but lawmakers voted in 2021 to postpone city elections, extending the terms of those elected in 2020 by one year. This year's election will be held on Aug. 26. If necessary, the runoff date is Sept. 23.

Officials said the move was made to be able to hold municipal elections on an off year from the presidential election, citing poll worker fatigue, voter confusion over voting venues and equipment shortages as reasons for the shift.

The qualification fee for candidates seeking election is $50.

During the qualification period, candidates must file a Statement of Candidacy form with the city clerk to appear on the ballot. Candidates also will file a Statement of Economic Interests form with the Alabama Ethics Commission.

It is recommended that candidates, when filing their Statement of Candidacy with the city clerk, also file their Statement of Economic Interest form with the ethics commission. If a candidate has already filed, they need to bring proof of his or her filing.

The Statement of Economic Interests form can be completed online at the Alabama Ethics Commission website. Candidates who already have a current Statement of Economics Interests form on file with the ethics commission do not have to file a duplicate statement at qualification. Forms will also be available at the city clerk's office during the qualification period.

Mayor and city council candidates must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, registered voter of the municipality at the time of qualification and a resident of the city or district they seek to serve for 90 consecutive days prior to the election. For more information on qualifications required to serve public office, go to https://www.sos.alabama.gov/alabama-votes/candidates/qualifications-public-office.

Gulf Coast Media will publish a list of the candidates for each city after qualifying closes.