Who can run or vote?

Unlike other city, state, or federal elections, voting and being a candidate in Neighborhood Council (NC) elections is open to more than just the residents of a community. Participation is open to those who live, work, or own property or a business within an NC’s boundaries, as well as to “community interest stakeholders,” such as church members, local students (or parents of students), or members of local service organizations.

Candidates and voters need not be US citizens or legal residents to qualify. Participation is also open to the formerly incarcerated. The minimum age to vote is 16; the minimum age to run for most NC seats is 18, except for Youth Seat candidates, who may be between the ages of 14-17.