How to Become the Mayor of Culver City: A Comprehensive Guide

Becoming the Mayor of Culver City is an exciting and achievable goal for those passionate about community leadership. This guide will walk you through every step – from meeting legal requirements and navigating elections, to running a successful campaign and understanding the mayor’s role. Culver City’s municipal government has its own unique processes, but with determination and the right knowledge, you can set yourself on the path to the mayor’s seat. Let’s dive in with an upbeat and motivational outlook on what it takes to make a difference in your city!

Eligibility Requirements for Office in Culver City

Before launching a campaign, you must ensure you meet all legal eligibility criteria for holding office in Culver City:

Age and Citizenship: You must be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen eligible to vote. In California, only U.S. citizens 18 or older can register to vote, which is a prerequisite for candidates .
Residency: You must be a resident of Culver City. The city’s charter requires that only residents of the city are eligible to hold elective office . You should have lived in Culver City long enough to establish residency (generally, at least 30 days prior to filing nomination papers) .
Registered Voter Status: You must be a registered voter in Culver City. In fact, the charter specifies that candidates must have been registered to vote in Culver City for at least 30 days immediately before filing nomination papers . Make sure your voter registration is up to date with your current Culver City address.
No Recent Resignation from Office: Culver City has a rule to promote stability: if you previously held a city office and resigned before your term ended, you must wait at least two years before running for any city elective office again .
Nonpartisan Position: Like all California city elections, Culver City’s offices are nonpartisan. While you can be active in a political party, your party affiliation won’t appear on the ballot. Your focus should be on local issues and community support rather than national party politics.

Tip: If you’re unsure about your eligibility, reach out to the Culver City City Clerk’s Office. They can confirm residency/voter requirements and provide guidance on registration (the City’s election webpage also links to the LA County Registrar for voter status checks) . In 2022, Culver City even considered expanding the local electorate – a ballot measure (Measure VY) proposed allowing 16- and 17-year-olds to vote in city elections, though it narrowly failed to pass . For now, the standard voting age of 18 applies.

Culver City’s Election Process: From City Council to Mayor

In Culver City, becoming the mayor is a two-step journey. First, you must get elected to the City Council. Then, you can be chosen as mayor by your fellow councilmembers. Here’s how the process works:

City Council Structure: Culver City is governed by a five-member City Council, elected at-large (citywide) for staggered four-year terms . Elections are held in November of even-numbered years, coinciding with statewide general elections . Typically, either two or three council seats are up for election every two years, depending on the cycle.
General Municipal Elections: The city’s charter mandates that local elections align with statewide general elections (early November of even years) . For example, voters elected three council members on November 5, 2024, with those new officials sworn in by early December . Aligning with higher-turnout elections ensures a broader voter voice in choosing city leaders.
No Directly Elected Mayor: Culver City’s mayor is not elected directly by the public in a separate mayoral race. Instead, the City Council selects one of its own members to serve as Mayor for a one-year term . Each December (at the “City Council reorganization” meeting following the election cycle), the council votes to appoint a Mayor and a Vice Mayor from among themselves . This means your name won’t be on the ballot for “Mayor” – you’ll run for City Council, and if elected, you and your colleagues will decide who becomes Mayor.
Annual Mayoral Rotation: By city tradition and charter, the mayor’s post rotates annually. The council holds an internal election to choose a Mayor (and typically a Vice Mayor) immediately after new councilmembers are sworn in . The Mayor serves a roughly one-year term as the presiding officer of the Council, then the role is up for selection again. In the past, Culver City informally rotated the mayoralty so each councilmember had a chance to serve, but in 2020 the Council affirmed that a simple majority vote – not automatic seniority – decides the Mayor each year . In practice, the vote is often unanimous and collegial. For example, in December 2023, the Council unanimously voted Councilmember Yasmine-Imani McMorrin in as Mayor for the year .
Role of Mayor vs. Councilmember: The Mayor of Culver City has the same one vote on the City Council as any other member . The position is often described as “first among equals.” The Mayor’s primary responsibilities are to chair council meetings, help set agendas, and serve as the ceremonial head of the city (cutting ribbons, issuing proclamations, representing Culver City at regional gatherings) . The Vice Mayor steps in when the Mayor is unavailable . It’s important to note that Culver City has a council–manager form of government – day-to-day city operations are run by a professional City Manager hired by the Council, while the Mayor and Council focus on policy and big-picture leadership.

In summary, to become Mayor, your immediate goal is to win a City Council seat. Once on the council, you can earn the respect and support of your colleagues to be selected as Mayor during the council’s organizational meeting. Keep in mind that serving as a councilmember is a vital role in itself – Mayor is a short-term title, but all five councilmembers have equal power when it comes to voting on laws and policies.

Getting on the Ballot: Nomination, Fees, and Filing Process

Running for City Council (the stepping stone to Mayor) involves following the official nomination and filing procedures. Culver City’s City Clerk is your go-to resource for this process. Here’s what to expect:

Timing – Know the Election Calendar: For a November election, the candidate nomination period typically opens in mid-July of that year and closes in early August. For example, for the November 2024 election, the filing period ran from July 15, 2024, to August 8, 2024 . These dates are set by election law (usually about 113–88 days before Election Day). Mark your calendar and start preparing early in the year. The City Clerk will publish an election calendar (often available on the city’s website or by request) with exact dates each cycle.
Schedule an Appointment with the City Clerk: Culver City requires prospective candidates to meet with the City Clerk to pull nomination papers . Once the filing period opens, contact the City Clerk’s Office to schedule an appointment. At this meeting, you’ll receive the official paperwork and instructions. The Clerk will also verify that you meet eligibility requirements and explain the process and deadlines.
Nomination Petitions – Signatures Required: To qualify for the ballot, you must submit a nomination petition with signatures of registered voters in Culver City. At least 20 valid signatures (and up to 30 can be submitted) are required . It’s wise to collect the maximum or a few extra in case some are invalid (signers must be Culver City registered voters and not have signed for another candidate for the same race). Gather support from neighbors and community members who are registered voters – this is an early chance to network and build awareness of your candidacy!
Filling Out the Candidate Forms: Along with the petition, you will fill out a Candidate’s Declaration of Candidacy (official form where you swear you meet the qualifications and want your name on the ballot) and provide the Ballot Designation (a brief description of your occupation or status to appear under your name on the ballot, e.g., “Educator/Community Volunteer”). The City Clerk can assist with guidelines for acceptable ballot designations. You’ll also be given an opportunity to draft a Candidate’s Statement for the voter information pamphlet – a brief (usually 200 or 300-word) statement about yourself and your platform. Submitting a statement is optional but highly recommended to reach voters; note that there may be a fee to cover printing costs for this statement. In Culver City, candidates pay their prorated share of the voter pamphlet printing if they choose to include a statement (fees can range in the few hundreds of dollars).
Filing Fees: Good news – Culver City does not charge a hefty filing fee to run for City Council. The process primarily relies on nomination signatures instead of a fee. (By contrast, some large cities require a fee or a larger signature count.) In Culver City, as long as you submit the required signatures, no additional fee is required to get on the ballot. This lowers the barrier for anyone interested in running.
Submit Before the Deadline: All your paperwork (nomination petition, forms, and any candidate statement) must be submitted to the City Clerk by the deadline (usually the last day of the nomination period in early August, by 5:30 PM) . It’s best not to wait until the last minute – submit a few days early if possible, so the Clerk can review your papers and let you know if anything needs fixing (for example, if some signatures were invalid and you need a couple more). If an incumbent councilmember whose seat is up for election chooses not to run again, the nomination period may be extended by a few days for non-incumbents only – the City Clerk will announce if this happens. Otherwise, no late papers are accepted.
Campaign Finance Setup: Once you’ve filed your papers (or even beforehand, if you start raising/spending money), you must comply with campaign finance laws. This includes filing a Form 501 (Candidate Intention Statement) before raising any money, and opening a campaign bank account. You’ll also file Form 410 (Statement of Organization) to get a campaign committee ID number if you plan to raise/spend over $2,000. These forms are filed with the California Secretary of State and City Clerk/LA County. The City Clerk’s election packet will have details on these requirements.
Statement of Economic Interests (Form 700): Candidates for city office in California must disclose their financial interests to avoid conflicts of interest. You’ll need to file a Form 700 (a disclosure of your income, property, investments, etc. in the city) when you file for candidacy. This is a public document but an important transparency measure so voters know about any potential conflicts you might have (for example, business holdings in the city).
Official Ballot Qualification: After the filing closes, the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder will verify your petition signatures. Once verified, you are officially qualified, and your name will appear on the ballot! The City Clerk will give you a notice of qualification and information on the upcoming candidate orientations or forums.
Key Tip – Use Official Resources: The Culver City Elections webpage (often found at culvercity.org/vote or via the City Clerk section of the official website) provides all needed forms, calendars, and links to the LA County Registrar’s office and California Secretary of State resources . Always refer to these official sources for the most up-to-date information and downloadable forms. For example, Los Angeles County’s election site (lavote.gov) lists deadlines and can provide the Candidate Handbook for municipal elections in the county. Don’t hesitate to ask the City Clerk any questions – they are there to help candidates understand the process.

By completing these steps, you’ll secure a spot on the ballot as a candidate for Culver City Council. It may seem paperwork-heavy, but each formality is manageable – and a necessary foundation for a transparent and fair election. Once you’re on the ballot, the real fun begins: campaigning!

Campaign Rules and Regulations

Running a campaign means not only persuading voters, but also following important rules that keep elections fair. Culver City candidates must abide by California state election laws and some local regulations. Here are the key rules to keep in mind:

Campaign Contribution Limits: Culver City has its own campaign finance ordinance that limits how much individuals and groups can contribute to a city council candidate. As of 2025, an individual may donate up to about $1,160 per election to a candidate (this limit is adjusted for inflation every two years ). Registered Small Contributor Committees (groups of small donors) can give up to roughly $2,320 per election . These amounts originate from a base limit of $1,000 (individual) and $2,000 (committee) set by city law , with periodic cost-of-living increases. Tip: Always check the current limit with the City Clerk, because it can change slightly in odd-numbered years. Do not accept any donation above the legal limit – it’s your responsibility to monitor and return any excess.
Campaign Finance Reporting: Transparency is key. You must file regular campaign finance reports disclosing all donations and expenditures. In California, local candidates typically file Form 460 reports. Key filings include: first semi-annual report (due end of July in an election year), pre-election reports (due about 30 and 10 days before the election), and a post-election semi-annual (due end of January). If you raise or spend less than $2,000 total, you may be eligible to file a simpler Form 470 indicating you don’t intend to raise above that threshold. The Los Angeles County Registrar (or City Clerk) will provide a schedule of due dates. Culver City’s website also links to the FPPC (Fair Political Practices Commission) resources for campaign disclosure, and the City Clerk may post all candidate finance reports online for public review (in fact, California law now requires cities to post campaign filings online in a searchable format) . Stay on top of these deadlines – late filing can result in fines, and voters deserve timely info on who’s funding your campaign.
Use of Funds and Bank Account: You must deposit all campaign contributions into a dedicated campaign bank account and use that account to pay for campaign expenses. Keep receipts and records of all expenditures. Personal use of campaign funds is prohibited – funds must be spent on campaign-related costs (mailers, signs, events, etc.).
No Public Resources for Campaigning: It is illegal to use any city resources (including staff time, city facilities, equipment, or public funds) for campaign purposes. For instance, you can’t ask a city employee to help with your campaign on city time, and you can’t use a City Hall photocopier for your flyers. This also means you should separate your campaign social media or communications from any official capacities you have.
Political Sign Regulations: Culver City, like most cities, has rules about campaign signs. Generally, campaign signs are allowed on private property with the owner’s permission. Signs cannot be placed on public property (parks, medians, utility poles, etc.) or in a way that obstructs traffic or safety. The city may limit the timeframe for signage – for example, signs may be permitted during the campaign season and must be taken down shortly after Election Day. (In past instances, strict sign ordinances have even led to lawsuits , so Culver City tries to balance free speech with community aesthetics.) Make sure you ask the City Clerk for the current guidelines on political signs, including any size restrictions or removal deadlines, to avoid citations or goodwill backlash. Always remove your signs promptly after the election to show respect for the community.
Ethics and Campaign Conduct: You will be expected to adhere to high ethical standards. California’s election code has provisions against things like false statements about opponents, bribery, intimidation, etc. The FPPC also enforces rules on conflicts of interest and gift limits. Culver City may host a candidate orientation or provide an ethics handbook. Running a clean, honest campaign isn’t just about following laws – it builds your reputation with voters and your future colleagues.
Election Day and Voting: As a candidate, you should be familiar with how Culver City voters can cast ballots. Los Angeles County conducts the election – nowadays, every registered voter gets a mail-in ballot by default, and there are vote centers open for several days where people can vote in person. Voter outreach efforts must respect rules too (e.g., no campaigning within 100 feet of a polling place or drop box). Encourage everyone to participate and remind supporters to return those ballots on time. A high turnout generally reflects well on the democratic process you’re part of.

The Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder’s Office (lavote.gov) is an excellent source for official information on election procedures, campaign finance forms, and deadlines. They have a Candidate Information Portal where you can find manuals and submit some forms electronically . Additionally, the California FPPC website (fppc.ca.gov) provides guides for local candidates, including summaries of laws and FAQs. Leverage these resources to keep your campaign compliant. Remember, following the rules is not just a legal obligation – it shows voters that you’re responsible and trustworthy, the kind of person they want as their mayor.

Building a Strong Campaign for City Council

With your name on the ballot and your campaign account set up, it’s time to win the hearts and minds of Culver City’s voters! Running for office can be challenging, but it’s also one of the most rewarding endeavors you can undertake. Below are key strategies for an effective, inspiring campaign:

Engage with the Community: Grassroots connection is everything. Start by reaching out and listening to residents. Attend community events, neighborhood association meetings, school functions, and local charity events – even before you officially declare your candidacy. Volunteering or serving on a Culver City board/commission can build your public profile and show commitment. As a candidate, go door-to-door if possible (canvassing), introduce yourself and ask what issues matter to people. Not only does this give you insight into community concerns, but it also earns you name recognition and goodwill. Cultivate relationships with community leaders and activists; their support can amplify your message. Importantly, be visible and approachable – use social media (Facebook, Instagram, Nextdoor, etc.) to announce events where voters can meet you, or hold “coffee with the candidate” gatherings. The more residents see that you genuinely care, the more likely they’ll remember you in the voting booth.
Develop a Clear Platform: Successful candidates often rally support around a few key issues. What do you stand for? It could be improving traffic safety, supporting local schools, promoting affordable housing, enhancing parks, or bolstering public safety – identify the issues most pressing in Culver City and formulate your vision. Make sure your platform addresses local needs (Culver City voters respond to practical city issues). Once you have your priorities, communicate them clearly in your campaign literature and on your website. Keep your messaging positive and forward-looking – explain how you will solve problems and make Culver City even better. A clear, uplifting message (“A Greener, Safer Culver City for All,” for example) can inspire voters and differentiate you from the pack.
Fundraising and Budgeting: Funds help get your message out. Plan a fundraising strategy early. Begin by reaching out to your personal network – friends, family, colleagues – for initial donations. Then extend to neighbors, local business owners, and community supporters. You can host small fundraiser events (like a backyard meet-and-greet or a Zoom fundraiser) to collect contributions. Always be mindful of the contribution limits (no more than $1,160 from one person in the current cycle ). Aim to build a broad base of small and medium donors – this not only funds your campaign but demonstrates community support. Budget wisely: typical expenses include campaign flyers/mailers, lawn signs, digital ads, a campaign website, door hangers, maybe some campaign swag (buttons, stickers). Get quotes and price out these items. You don’t need the biggest war chest to win a local race, but you do need enough to reach voters multiple times (through mail, online, or in person). Even a modest campaign in Culver City may cost several thousand dollars, so fundraise accordingly. Remember to thank your donors (a little appreciation goes a long way), and regularly remind supporters how to donate via your website or events.
Campaign Team and Volunteers: You don’t have to do this alone! Build a team of enthusiastic volunteers – they are the lifeblood of local campaigns. Start with close friends and family, then recruit others who believe in your cause. You’ll need people to phone-bank, canvass neighborhoods, distribute literature, host house parties, and staff campaign booths at events. If you have the budget, you might also hire a professional campaign consultant or treasurer to handle strategy and finance compliance, but it’s not required. Often, passionate community volunteers can drive a winning grassroots campaign. Be organized: assign roles (e.g., a volunteer coordinator, social media manager, treasurer). Hold regular team check-ins to maintain momentum and morale. Most importantly, inspire your team with your vision and appreciation – if they feel valued and see progress, they’ll bring more people on board.
Public Speaking and Debates: As a candidate (and future mayor), you’ll be in the public eye. Work on your public speaking skills so you can confidently communicate your ideas. Practice delivering your stump speech – a short 2-3 minute summary of who you are and why you’re running – as you’ll use it at forums and when meeting voters. Expect to participate in candidate forums or debates organized by local groups (like the Culver City Chamber of Commerce, neighborhood councils, or advocacy organizations). Prepare by anticipating questions on local issues (budget, development, transit, public safety, etc.) and practicing concise, upbeat answers. If public speaking isn’t your strength yet, consider joining a group like Toastmasters or asking advisors for coaching. The more you practice, the more natural and inspiring you’ll sound. Always keep your tone positive and respectful when discussing opponents or city challenges – voters appreciate a candidate who stays optimistic and solution-oriented.
Media Outreach and Online Presence: Take advantage of both traditional and social media to amplify your message. Local newspapers and blogs (like the Culver City Observer, Culver City News, Culver City Crossroads, etc.) often cover city elections – reach out to them with press releases about your campaign launch, major endorsements, or key policy proposals. You might get profile pieces or invitations to be interviewed. Also, consider local radio or podcasts that discuss community issues. Equally important is your online presence: create a simple, attractive campaign website with a bio, platform, and ways to get involved or donate. Use social media to post updates from the campaign trail – photos at community events (showing you out and about), short videos explaining your stance on issues, shout-outs thanking volunteers. Engage with the community online by responding to comments or questions (always remain courteous, even with critics). Consistency and positivity online can significantly boost your name recognition. On Election Day, some voters will recall a candidate simply because they saw them frequently on Facebook or Instagram championing local causes.
Endorsements and Coalitions: While city races are nonpartisan, endorsements still carry weight. Seek endorsements from respected community members and organizations. This could include current or former local officials (mayors, councilmembers, school board members), community leaders, neighborhood association presidents, or activists known in town. Additionally, Culver City has an active civic scene – for example, the Culver City Democratic Club often endorses in council races (if you’re a Democrat, their endorsement can signal support to many voters in this generally progressive city). There may also be endorsements from public safety unions (police, firefighters), environmental groups, business groups, or local chapters of advocacy organizations (like BikeLA for bike infrastructure, etc.). Each endorsement can come with volunteer support, exposure to that group’s members, or even campaign contributions. Don’t be afraid to ask for support – usually you’ll fill out a questionnaire or do an interview to earn an endorsement. When you receive one, publicize it (list endorsements on your website, mention them in mailers) – it builds credibility. However, remember that endorsements are a bonus; your personal connection with voters matters most in a small election.
Campaign Ethics and Demeanor: Voters often say they want candidates who run a positive, issues-focused campaign. Stand out by staying above mudslinging. Culver City is a tight-knit community; a nasty attack on an opponent can backfire. If you disagree with another candidate, state your alternative solution rather than personally attacking them. Also, be honest and accurate in your claims – maintain that integrity because as a future Mayor, your reputation for honesty will be crucial. By campaigning with integrity, you not only win votes but also earn the respect of the community (and possibly your future colleagues on the council).
Staying Motivated: Campaigning is a marathon, not a sprint. There will be long days and inevitable challenges (perhaps a debate answer that didn’t land well or a slower fundraising week). Keep your end goal in sight – the opportunity to serve and improve your city. Surround yourself with positive people who lift you up. Celebrate small victories along the way (like winning an endorsement, or hitting a canvassing milestone of doors knocked). Your enthusiasm will be infectious. Culver City residents want a Mayor who genuinely cares and has the energy to lead – let your passion shine through in all you do.

Every interaction in your campaign is a chance to gain a supporter or leave a positive impression. From a chat with a senior at the farmers market to a detailed policy discussion with a concerned parent at a school meeting – listen actively and respond with empathy and knowledge. Your journey to the mayor’s office is built one relationship at a time. By running a strong campaign, you’re not only increasing your chances of winning, but also preparing yourself to be an effective Mayor who understands the community.

Culver City’s Government Structure and the Mayor’s Role

Culver City City Hall (9770 Culver Blvd) – the seat of city government. The five-member City Council governs Culver City, and one councilmember each year serves as Mayor. Understanding how the council-manager system works will help you excel as a future Mayor.

It’s important to understand the framework of Culver City’s government and what the Mayor’s job entails within that structure. Culver City operates under a “Council-Manager” system which is common in California cities:

City Council: The City Council is the legislative and policymaking body. Five councilmembers (including the Mayor and Vice Mayor) collectively decide on city laws (ordinances), the budget, city programs, and initiatives. They also appoint key officials like the City Manager, City Attorney, and members of city commissions. In Culver City, Councilmembers are elected at-large (by all city voters) rather than by district , and they serve four-year terms with a two-term consecutive limit (after two back-to-back terms, a member must step down for at least one cycle before running again). This means fresh perspectives come in regularly, but experienced members can serve up to 8 years in a stretch.
Mayor’s Role: The Mayor is essentially the chairperson of the City Council. Each year, the council selects one of its members to take on this role . The Mayor presides over council meetings – calling the meetings to order, managing the discussion, and ensuring everyone follows procedural rules (like Robert’s Rules of Order or the council’s own protocols). The Mayor often sets the tone of meetings and works with the City Manager and staff to shape meeting agendas. Importantly, the Mayor has equal voting power – one vote, no veto – just like other councilmembers . Decisions require majority votes of the council.
Ceremonial and Community Leadership: Outside the council chamber, the Mayor is regarded as the public face of the city. You would represent Culver City at official events, such as regional council meetings, conferences, ribbon-cuttings for new businesses or facilities, community celebrations, and sometimes in meetings with state or federal representatives. The Mayor often delivers the annual “State of the City” address and is the media’s first point of contact for city issues. It’s a role that carries prestige and responsibility – you are the voice conveying the city’s priorities and pride. For example, Culver City’s mayor might be called upon to welcome attendees to Fiesta La Ballona (the city’s annual festival) or to give remarks at the opening of a new soundstage in our famed entertainment industry hub.
City Manager and Staff: The daily administration of Culver City is handled by the City Manager, who is like the CEO of the city government. The City Manager is appointed by and accountable to the council as a whole (not just the Mayor). This professional administrator oversees all city departments (Police, Fire, Public Works, Parks, Community Development, etc.), prepares the budget, and implements the policies that the Council adopts. As Mayor, you don’t direct staff (that’s the Manager’s job), but you work closely with the City Manager to ensure the Council’s policy goals are carried out. You’ll likely meet regularly with the City Manager to discuss upcoming agenda items and urgent city issues. Having a good working relationship with the Manager and city staff is crucial – effective mayors facilitate collaboration between the council and the staff.
Mayor Pro Tem (Vice Mayor): Culver City also selects a Vice Mayor each year (sometimes called Mayor Pro Tem), who is essentially the second-in-command on the council . The Vice Mayor fills in when the Mayor is absent or recused. Typically, the councilmember who is in line to possibly be Mayor next year might serve as Vice Mayor this year, but the selection is up to council vote. As a future Mayor, you might serve as Vice Mayor first, which is a good apprenticeship for the top spot.
Other Bodies and Regional Duties: Culver City Councilmembers often serve on regional boards or committees as part of their role (for instance, the Westside Cities Council of Governments, public transportation boards, etc.). The Mayor frequently gets a seat or a leadership role in these regional collaborations, simply by virtue of being Mayor. Within Culver City, the City Council members also sit as the governing board for other public agencies like the Culver City Housing Authority, Parking Authority, and Redevelopment Successor Agency – essentially, the same five people change hats depending on the meeting (this was hinted by the fact that councilmembers “sit simultaneously as members of five other legislative bodies”) . The Mayor presides over those meetings as well. Don’t worry, you won’t need separate campaigns for those – if you’re on the council, you’re automatically on those boards.
Working with Fellow Councilmembers: As Mayor, you are still one member of the team. A big part of the Mayor’s job is building consensus on the Council. You may have to facilitate compromises and make sure all voices are heard during debates. In Culver City’s collegial environment, most Mayors strive to be fair moderators. While you might get a bit more spotlight, remember to share credit and visibility with your colleagues – a good Mayor lifts up the whole Council. This collaborative spirit will also make it more likely your colleagues support you for Mayor when the time comes to choose!
Largely Ceremonial, but Not Insignificant: Some call the Mayor’s position in a council-manager city “largely ceremonial.” It’s true that you won’t have unilateral power to, say, veto ordinances or hire/fire staff (powers that a “strong mayor” in some large cities might have). However, your influence as Mayor can be significant: you help shape meeting agendas, you represent the city’s interests in intergovernmental matters, and you often serve as a tiebreaker in public opinion (people look to the Mayor’s stance on issues as a signal). You can use the platform to promote initiatives you care about – for example, if one of your goals is a greener city, as Mayor you might launch a “Mayor’s Sustainability Taskforce” or similar community effort. Past Culver City mayors have been able to highlight special projects during their tenure.

Understanding this structure is essential, because it prepares you for what lies ahead after you win the election. Being Mayor means leading through influence and inspiration, not through executive orders. It means being the most prepared councilmember, doing your homework on city issues so you can guide discussions. It means being a cheerleader for Culver City, celebrating its successes and confronting its challenges with optimism and resolve – whether it’s addressing traffic congestion or expanding affordable housing, you’ll be the one the public looks to for leadership. The better you grasp the workings of city government now, the more effective you’ll be when you hold the gavel in the Council Chamber.

Recent Changes in Culver City’s Election Laws and Procedures

Elections evolve, and it’s important to stay updated on the latest rules specific to Culver City. In recent years, there have been a few notable changes and proposed changes impacting how local democracy works:

Election Timing (Move to November): Culver City used to hold its municipal elections in April (off-cycle from federal/state elections), but in order to increase voter turnout (and comply with California’s Voter Participation law), the city moved its elections to November of even-numbered years, coinciding with state and national elections . This change, implemented via a charter amendment a few years ago, means higher voter participation now – an important factor to consider for your campaign. It also extended the terms of some councilmembers during the transition (hence the mention of “seven or eight extra months” for one term in 2020) . The bottom line: you’ll be running in a general election with a larger, more diverse electorate than in the old April elections. Plan your outreach accordingly (e.g., prepare to reach some voters who might be primarily drawn by presidential or gubernatorial races).
Mayoral Selection Process: As discussed earlier, the way Culver City selects its Mayor was updated in 2020. The City Council formally did away with the automatic rotation policy (where the Vice Mayor would always become Mayor next) and instead codified that a majority vote of the council chooses the Mayor each year . This was a procedural change aimed at flexibility – ensuring the council is free to pick the member it feels is best suited or most supported at that time. For aspiring future mayors, this means you should build good working relationships with your peers on the council. Show leadership and cooperation so that when it’s time to vote for Mayor, you can secure those colleague votes. There’s no longer a guarantee you’ll become Mayor just by seniority; you earn it by respect and consensus.
Youth Voting Initiative: In 2022, Culver City voters saw Measure VY on the ballot, which would have been a groundbreaking change – allowing 16- and 17-year-old residents to vote in Culver City municipal and school board elections. The City Council placed this charter amendment on the ballot to engage youth in civic affairs. The measure very narrowly failed (about 50.05% “No” to 49.95% “Yes”) . If it had passed, Culver City would have been among the first in California to lower the voting age for local elections. While it didn’t succeed, it shows the city’s appetite for innovative ideas to expand democracy. Keep an eye out: there may be renewed efforts in the future to empower younger voters or other electoral reforms, and as a candidate you might be asked your stance on such issues.
All-Mail Ballot Elections: Los Angeles County (and thus Culver City’s elections under the county’s purview) has moved toward providing universal vote-by-mail. By state law (as of 2022), every voter is mailed a ballot. In addition, Culver City occasionally calls special elections that are all-mail. For instance, a Special All-Mailed Ballot Election for a local measure was scheduled for August 2025 . The procedures for voters have thus changed – fewer people vote at traditional polling places, and more vote early by mail or drop-box. As a candidate, you’ll want to adjust by campaigning earlier (since many voters fill out and return mail ballots weeks before Election Day) and possibly doing a final push in the last week for those who procrastinate. Also, plan your mailers and messaging to hit mailboxes during the mail voting window, not just right before Election Day.
Campaign Finance Law Updates: California’s campaign finance landscape changed with AB 571 (2021), which imposed default contribution limits on local races that didn’t have their own. Culver City already had its own contribution limits, but the city updated its municipal code in 2015 and continues to adjust the limits biennially . Recently, the city gave official notice of the adjusted limit amounts for 2025 . Staying informed about these adjustments is crucial. Additionally, as of 2021, local campaign filings (Form 460, etc.) must be posted online by the city for public transparency (Culver City complies, often using the NetFile system to make filings accessible). In 2023, state law (SB 1439) also started prohibiting certain large contributors (over $250) from influencing officials on decisions if they donated in the past year – a rule aimed at preventing pay-to-play, which might affect you post-election when voting on contracts or projects.
District Elections – Not in Culver City (Yet): Many cities in California have been forced to switch from at-large elections to district-based elections due to the California Voting Rights Act. Culver City, as of 2025, still uses at-large elections for its Council . There has been no move to districts, likely because the city’s demographics and voting patterns haven’t triggered a lawsuit, and there’s a preference to keep the council accountable to the whole city. This is a status quo, not a change – but it’s worth noting because it could change in the future if challenges arose. For now, as a candidate you must campaign citywide.
Ranked Choice Voting or Other Reforms: Some cities have explored alternative voting methods (like ranked-choice voting) for their elections. Culver City has not implemented any such system – it uses the traditional plurality vote (the top vote-getters win the seats). But keep an eye out for any local discussion on election reforms. Being knowledgeable on these topics can set you apart as a forward-thinking candidate.
Voting Access and Education: Culver City has been proactive in encouraging voter registration and education. The city often reminds citizens to register (for example, ahead of a special election, noting the last day to register) . In November 2022, alongside Measure VY, voters overwhelmingly passed Measure BL which removed an old requirement that voters be U.S. citizens as defined by federal law – an interesting technical change that might allow the city to be more inclusive if state law permits (for example, some cities let non-citizen residents vote in school board elections). As of now, state law still requires U.S. citizenship to vote in city council elections, but the city’s charter change indicates a willingness to adapt if the state ever allows broader voting rights. This shows Culver City’s trend: a city open to expanding participation and adjusting its laws with the times.

Staying informed about these changes is part of being a community leader. Make it a habit to follow City Council meetings, especially when election-related items are discussed, even before you run. When you’re at neighborhood forums, voters might ask about things like Measure VY or your thoughts on how the Mayor is chosen – your ability to speak to these issues knowledgeably and enthusiastically will demonstrate that you’re not just running for a title, but you truly care about the democratic process in Culver City.

Conclusion: Your Path to City Hall

Running for office and aiming to become the Mayor of Culver City is a bold and commendable aspiration. It’s a journey that requires heart, hustle, and hope. By meeting the requirements, running a savvy campaign, and serving with integrity on the City Council, you can earn the opportunity to lead this vibrant community.

Along the way, remember why you’re doing this – to make a positive impact on the city you love. Keep that vision at the center of your campaign. There will be long nights, tough questions, and maybe moments of doubt. But there will also be incredible rewards: the first time you see a supporter proudly post your campaign sign in their yard, the thrill of a successful debate answer, a conversation with a resident where you realize you truly helped them feel heard – and of course, the exhilaration of election night when the results come in.

If elected, when you finally take that oath and don the Mayor’s title, you’ll have the chance to turn ideas into action – to champion affordable housing, environmental sustainability, public safety, arts and culture, or whatever drives you. You will be at the helm, guiding Culver City through challenges and celebrations. You will prove that one person, with the trust of their neighbors, can shape the future.

As you prepare, surround yourself with positive mentors and a supportive team. Learn from past mayors and councilmembers (their experiences are a treasure trove of lessons). And always stay connected to the residents – they are the true heartbeat of Culver City, and your role is to be their voice and advocate.

Use this guide as a roadmap, but know that your passion and dedication are the real ingredients of success. The city’s official resources – the City Clerk, the Culver City website , and the LA County Registrar’s office – are there to assist you with the technical details and dates. Lean on them. Stay organized, stay enthusiastic, and stay true to your values.

Culver City needs inspirational leaders, and you have taken the first step by asking how to become its Mayor. Now, it’s time to put that knowledge into action. Good luck on your journey – we can’t wait to see you on the campaign trail, and hopefully, to call you “Mayor” one day!

References: Official Culver City City Charter and Municipal Code provisions for eligibility and office selection ; Culver City City Clerk’s election notices and press releases for candidate filing information ; local news coverage of mayoral rotation and city election changes ; and Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder resources for election procedures. These sources provide the foundation for the requirements and processes detailed in this guide, ensuring you have accurate and up-to-date information as of 2025. Good luck – the future of Culver City awaits your leadership!