Signal Hill residents will have to elect three council members this November. The nomination period for candidates opened on Monday, and will continue until August 9 at 4:30 p.m.
The City of Signal Hill’s elections coincide with Los Angeles County’s, which take place on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November on even-numbered years. This year’s election will take place on Nov. 5, according to the City’s website.
The three city council members whose seats will be up for election are Robert D. Copeland, Lori Y. Woods and Edward H.J. Wilson. If they don’t decide to run again for their seat, the nomination period will be extended to August 14.
Signal Hill city council members are responsible for voting on new laws, passing budgets, declaring states of emergency and more. Their terms last for four years.
Unlike Long Beach and other major cities, Signal Hill’s council members take turns being mayor and vice-mayor. Every two years, the council member elected in the most recent prior election becomes vice mayor, and the current vice mayor is elevated to the position of mayor.
One city clerk position is also up for election, and the person elected will serve a partial term of two years. The current city clerk, Daritza Gonzalez, was appointed to her office last year rather than elected, after the former elected city clerk Carmen Brooks stepped down.
According to the City’s website, the city clerk is responsible for administering democratic processes (such as elections), organizing ceremonial and official events, managing public inquiries and relationships, as well as providing access to city records and legislative actions to ensure public transparency.
Since the most recent compensation increase in 2022, city council members have earned $722.18 per month, while the city treasurer and clerk earn $438.22. City staff recently recommended 10% raises in the compensation for city council members and city clerks.
