What are the qualifications to run for township office?
To qualify for either township supervisor, treasurer, clerk or trustee, a person must be a township elector, but property ownership is not required. A person must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years of age, and registered to vote and a ‘qualified elector’ of the township by the filing deadline. (MCL 168.342)
A ‘qualified elector’ defined is a person who possesses the qualifications of an elector as prescribed in section 1 of article II of the State Constitution of 1963 and who has resided in the township 30 days. (MCL 168.10)
How does a citizen qualify for office?
Visit the Michigan Department of State Elections website for the required information on running as a candidate for township supervisor, clerk, treasurer and trustee.
What are the filing deadlines?
For candidate filing deadlines, see the state Bureau of Elections calendar here.
There are several deadlines for candidates for township office to file the applicable petitions, so it is still possible for a person to establish residency and become a qualified and registered voter for election to township board office by different dates.
How long is the term of office for elected township officials?
The term of office for all elected officials is four years. The terms commence at 12 p.m. on November 20 following the November general election, provided the newly elected officials have qualified for office by that time.
How does an elected official qualify for office?
To qualify, a successful candidate must file any necessary bond and take an oath of office before the township clerk, deputy clerk or other officer qualified to administer the oath, such as the county clerk or deputy county clerk, notary public, judge or justice with jurisdiction, or the state representative or senator. Elected officials must qualify for office before January 1 or lose the elected position.
For a full list of core competencies for elected township officials, click here.