Village Council Election Process

As described in the Village Charter, the Election of Council members takes place on a date determined from year to year between March 1 and May 15. Council members are elected to terms of two years. The number of seats open on the Council alternates between two and three seats every other year. All elections are managed by the Elections and Ethics Committee. The Committee consists of a minimum of three people appointed by the Council from qualified voter volunteers. Each year the details of the election cycle for that year are published in the Village newsletter. The following guidelines contained in the Charter apply:

• Not less than sixty days prior to the election, the Election Committee shall request that written nominations be submitted to the Council. Nominations must be received in writing at least thirty days prior to the election.
• At least two weeks prior to the election, the Election Committee shall give written notice of the nominations together with resumes of the nominees and designate the date of the election, the polling place and time.
• Each qualified voter may cast a ballot on the day and at the time designated. Qualified voters unable to vote in person may vote by absentee ballot. The Council shall determine the rules for absentee voting based upon the recommendation of the Election Committee.
• In the event that two or more candidates receive the same number of votes where only one can be elected, there shall be a runoff election within two weeks of the original election. The Council may choose to hold the runoff election by mail ballot.
• Those persons elected to new Councils shall take office on July 1 following the election. The term of former Councils shall expire simultaneously with the taking of office by the new Council member(s).

WHO CAN VOTE?

Any person who is 18 years of age or older as of Election Day and resides in or owns property in Martin’s Additions is entitled to vote in the Village Council election. Voters in Martin’s Additions need not be registered to vote in Montgomery County or in the State of Maryland. Non-U.S. citizens are allowed to vote. The Election Committee will have an updated version of the Village Directory available and computerized to verify residents’ names and addresses. If you’re not listed on the voter rolls please be prepared to show a driver’s license, a utility bill or other acceptable documentation showing your Martin’s Additions address when you come to the polls. Questions should be directed to Frank Correl, Chairman of the Elections Committee, at 301-951-9211 or at martinsadditions@verizon.net.