With election day (June 8) just around the corner it reminds us
that the deadline to enter the November election is Aug. 6 (or Aug.
11 if no incumbent runs) is fast approaching.
With election day (June 8) just around the corner it reminds us that the deadline to enter the November election is Aug. 6 (or Aug. 11 if no incumbent runs) is fast approaching.
That November election will include the mayoral seat and two seats on the city council, as well as four school board members. Two viable newcomers – local businessmen Michael Castelan, owner of Poppy’s Fish, Poultry and More, and Rick Moreno, owner of Ricatoni’s deli – have said they intend to run for city council, though the official filing does not begin until June 12. In addition, Mayor Steve Tate said he will seek another term. No current school board members have officially announced their intentions.
All that is needed is that you are a resident of Morgan Hill to run for city council or a resident of the school district to run for the school board.
And, with seven local seats open, it’s vital to the democratic process numerous candidates run because more voices foster vigorous debate. It’d be nice to see at least two candidates run for each seat. And what kind of person are we looking for? The ideal candidate will have knowledge of the issues and a solid position on each. At the same time, avoid being pigeon-holed as a one issue candidate with a narrow agenda.
It’d be especially nice if minority candidates ran. The council and school board should reflect the demographics of the community, unfortunately neither do.
Finally, if you are easily rattled by criticism, then don’t get into politics. Candidates who get defensive when questioned will turn off voters. You have to listen to peoples’ concerns and be thick-skinned to withstand criticisms. Take the constructive criticism, learn from it and put it to use. Let the personal attacks roll off your back.
To help those interested in running for the school board, the Santa Clara County Office of Education is offering a free workshop for prospective candidates from 9:30 a.m. to noon July 5 in the Milpitas Room, second floor north at the SCCOE headquarters at 1290 Ridder Park Drive in San Jose. An RSVP is required.
Contact and RSVP: Rose Filicetti at sa*****@ao*.com or call 201-6001.
