Have you ever thought about running for City Council? The City of San Luis Obispo will soon host a new biennial educational opportunity for residents who are curious about running for City Council.

The City will host its first-ever City Council Candidate Education Forum in November in partnership with the Latino Outreach Council, immediately following the Latino Outreach Council’s monthly Town Hall.

City Council Candidate Education Forum
Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 12 to 2 p.m.
San Luis Obispo Library, Community Room
Space is limited, and lunch will be provided.
Please register online by November 10, 2025.

“Serving on City Council is one of the most impactful ways to shape the future of San Luis Obispo,” said Mayor Erica A. Stewart. “This event is about breaking down barriers and helping community members feel confident and prepared to step into leadership roles. Even if you’re just curious about the process, you’ll walk away with useful information about how local democracy works.”

This educational session is open to all community members interested in learning more about serving on City Council. Attendees will hear directly from City staff and leaders about:

• The role and responsibilities of a City Council Member
• The new Citywide Single Vote for City Council process
• Who can run and the candidate nomination process
• Practical guidance on running for an elected office and engaging with the community

So, why now? While there is not a City Council election this year, there will be one next year. The City is committed to providing anyone interested in becoming a City Council Member with enough time to consider what is needed to step forward, run for election, and serve the community.  

“We know that running for office and serving as an elected official is a significant commitment and can be daunting,” said City Manager Whitney McDonald. “We are offering this early on to provide potential candidates with a welcoming and supportive environment to better understand what it takes to run for City Council and serve as a Council Member.”

This event is accessible to all, and the presentation will be recorded and shared publicly online. To request reasonable accommodation, including translation, interpreters, or childcare, please contact Natalie Harnett at nharnett@slocity.org or 805.781.7282 at least 3 business days before the event.

This activity is one of many the City is organizing to ensure diverse representation in City government. The City will host this event every other year to empower residents to participate in local government. This year’s event is also being held now to avoid scheduling conflicts with the City’s Community Academy in spring 2026.

For more information, visit www.slocity.org/Elections.  

Media Contact: Whitney Szentesi, Public Communications Manager, 805.783.7716, wszentes@slocity.org.