Correction, August 17, 2026 11:28 am: This story was updated to correct the official deadline dates for candidates to file for Philomath City Council. A date that had been published previously was only the recommended date by the city for candidates to submit documents.
With less than a month remaining to file, only one candidate has completed the qualifying process for three open Philomath City Council seats on the November ballot.
Rich Saalsaa, who was appointed to his seat in January 2025 following Matt Lehman’s departure, is so far the only candidate who has finished the city’s filing process, according to the city’s elections webpage.
The deadline for candidates to complete filing is Aug. 18 for incumbents and Aug. 25 for newcomers. The city is urging candidates to submit documents by Aug. 11.
The three seats up for election are currently held by Jessica Andrade, Teresa Nielson and Saalsaa. As of this week, neither Andrade nor Nielson had completed filing to appear on the ballot for their seats.
The filing period opened June 3. Candidates must be approved to circulate a nominating petition and have their signatures verified before their filing can be finalized — steps the city says can take time, which is why officials are urging anyone interested to contact the City Elections Officer well before Aug. 11.
All three seats carry four-year terms beginning Jan. 1, 2027, and expiring Dec. 31, 2030. The positions are nonpartisan and unpaid, and candidates must reside within Philomath city limits.
Those interested in running are encouraged to contact Crystal Weber at Philomath City Hall for eligibility requirements, candidate materials and filing instructions.
Additional information is available on the city’s elections webpage.