Farmington's Mayor Seat Is on the November Ballot
TLDR
Candidate filing runs Tuesday, July 14 through Tuesday, July 28.
Three seats are up: a special election for the remaining mayoral term and two four-year council seats.
You file with the city clerk at City Hall.
Absentee voting has already started at City Hall.
If you've ever thought about serving your city — or you just want to make sure you vote this fall — Farmington's July 6 meeting had the details you need. Three seats are on the November ballot, and the window to file as a candidate is short.
What's on the ballot
Farmington's clerk laid out three positions for the November 3 general election. First, a special election for the mayor's seat — the winner serves the remainder of the current term, running through December 31, 2028. On top of that, two regular four-year council seats are up, each running from January 2027 through December 31, 2030.
The special election for mayor exists because of a turbulent stretch earlier this year. Former Mayor Joshua Hoyt resigned in February, citing his mental health, days after a heated meeting over a data-center public-comment limit. Council Member Nick Lien has served as mayor since, and now voters will choose who finishes the term.
How to file
The filing period runs Tuesday, July 14 to Tuesday, July 28. Anyone interested files with the city clerk, Melissa, at City Hall. That's it — but the deadline is firm, so if you're considering it, don't wait until the last day.
How to vote
You don't have to wait until November to cast a ballot. Absentee voting is already open at Farmington City Hall — Monday through Thursday from 8:00 to 4:30, and Fridays from 8:00 to 11:00. For anyone who prefers to vote in person on Election Day, that's November 3.
Why this one matters
This isn't a sleepy off-cycle race. Whoever wins will help steer some of the biggest issues on Farmington's plate — the police station project, the 2027 budget, ongoing growth like the recently approved Vermillion Reserve housing development, and the still-contested Tract data center. Local elections tend to draw fewer voters than national ones, which means each Farmington vote carries more weight.
The bottom line
Two dates to remember: file between July 14 and July 28 if you want to run, and vote by (or on) November 3 if you want a say. Filing details are with the city clerk at farmingtonmn.gov, and countywide election info is available through Dakota County and the Minnesota Secretary of State.
FAQ
Which seats are up this year? The mayor's seat (special election, term through 2028) and two four-year council seats.
Why is the mayor's seat a special election? Former Mayor Joshua Hoyt resigned in February; the November race fills the rest of his term.
When can I file to run? July 14 through July 28, with the city clerk at City Hall.
Can I vote early? Yes — absentee voting is already open at City Hall.
Where do I check my registration or ballot? Through Dakota County or the Minnesota Secretary of State's office.
