How to Run for Township Office

Township offices belong to the residents of Jackson Township. Any eligible resident may choose to run for positions such as Township Trustee or Township Advisory Board Member. This page provides a simple, non-partisan overview of what that process generally looks like.

This guide is for informational purposes only. For official deadlines, forms, and legal requirements, always contact the DeKalb County Clerk or the Indiana Election Division.

Offices You Can Run For

• Township Trustee
  Serves as the executive officer of the township, managing day-to-day operations, assistance programs, and contracts, including fire and emergency services.
• Township Advisory Board Member
  Serves on a three-member board that provides fiscal oversight, approves budgets, and sets compensation for township officials within legal limits.

All of these positions are typically elected to four-year terms in general elections held in even-numbered years. Check with the DeKalb County Clerk for the next election cycle and filing dates.

Basic Eligibility (General Expectations)

• Be a resident of Jackson Township, DeKalb County, Indiana.
• Be a registered voter in the state of Indiana.
• Meet any additional legal requirements established by state law for the specific office.

Exact eligibility criteria may change over time. Always verify with the DeKalb County Clerk or the Indiana Election Division before filing.

Typical Steps to Become a Candidate

1. Confirm Requirements and Deadlines
   Contact the DeKalb County Clerk’s Office to obtain the latest candidate filing information, deadlines, and forms for township offices.
2. Decide How to Appear on the Ballot
   Depending on Indiana election rules and your situation, you may:
   • File as a major-party candidate in a primary election.
   • File as an independent or minor-party candidate, which may require petition signatures.
   The Clerk can explain current options and the forms associated with each.
3. File Candidate Forms
   Complete and submit the required forms to the County Clerk by the stated deadlines. This may include declarations of candidacy and campaign finance documents.
4. Learn the Role You Are Seeking
   Review the Trustee & Board Duties page on this site and any official sources so you understand the responsibilities of the office you are seeking.
5. Talk with Residents
   Share your vision respectfully, listen to concerns, and explain how you plan to uphold the duties of the office if elected.
6. Follow Campaign Finance and Ethics Rules
   Comply with all campaign finance and reporting requirements. The County Clerk or the Indiana Election Division can provide guidance and official materials.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Running

• Do I understand the day-to-day responsibilities of the office, beyond the title?
• Am I prepared to make decisions that affect all residents, not just one neighborhood or group?
• Can I commit the time needed to attend meetings, review budgets, and respond to residents?
• Am I willing to be transparent about decisions and open to respectful questions?

Thoughtful, prepared candidates help strengthen township government, regardless of party or platform.

Where to Get Official Election Information

For the most accurate and up-to-date information about running for township office, contact:

• DeKalb County Clerk’s Office
  For candidate forms, filing deadlines, and local election procedures.
• Indiana Election Division
  For statewide rules, candidate guides, and legal references.

This website is a resident-created guide and does not replace official instructions from government election authorities.