Filing Now Open for Elgin City Council Candidates Ahead of May 2026 Election
With local voices shaping the heart of community leadership, the City of Elgin is now accepting applications from residents interested in running for a seat on the Elgin City Council in the upcoming May 2, 2026, General Election. The filing period officially opened on January 14 and will close promptly at 5:00 PM on Tuesday, February 13, 2026.
For those in the Elgin community considering public service, this is the window of opportunity to step up and help guide the city’s future.
Where to File and What’s Needed
Candidate Packets—comprehensive guides prepared by the City Secretary’s Office—are available both online through the City Secretary’s page and in person at Elgin City Hall, located at 310 N Main Street. These packets provide step-by-step instructions and required documentation for a smooth application process.
Completed applications and all accompanying materials can be:
- Hand-delivered to City Hall during regular business hours
- Dropped off in the secure overnight drop box outside City Hall
- Mailed to City Hall (mailed applications will be filed the day they are received)
Current Leadership & Council Responsibilities
Elgin’s City Council is composed of dedicated representatives serving across four wards, along with a mayor elected at-large. Current members include Mayor Theresa Y. McShan (term ending May 2026), and Council Members Joy Casnovsky (Ward 1), Arthur Gibson III (Ward 1), YaLecia Love (Ward 2), Chuck Swain (Ward 2), Tiffany St. Pierre (Ward 3), Al Rodriguez (Ward 3), Sue Brashar (Ward 4 and Mayor Pro Tem), and Liston Crim (Ward 4). Terms are staggered, with several set to expire in 2026.
City Council members are expected to participate in regular meetings, vote on city ordinances, approve budgets, and serve as the voice of their constituents. It’s a role that requires commitment, collaboration, and a deep understanding of community needs.
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Key Dates for Elgin Residents to Know
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January 28, 2026: Midway point in the filing period – candidate packets still available online and at City Hall
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February 13, 2026: Final day to file for a place on the ballot (office open until 5:00 PM)
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February 17, 2026: Final day to file as a Write-In Candidate
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March 12, 2026: Last day to register to vote in the May 2 General Election
Voter Registration Info for Bastrop & Travis County Residents
To vote in the upcoming May 2 election, residents must be registered by March 12, 2026. Elgin spans both Bastrop and Travis Counties, so voters should reference the appropriate county for registration:
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Bastrop County: bastropvotes.org
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Travis County: tax-office.traviscountytx.gov/voters
Community Representation Starts Here
Running for City Council isn’t just about holding office—it’s about representing your neighborhood, advocating for community priorities, and collaborating on Elgin’s path forward. Whether you're a long-time resident or a newer face with a passion for civic engagement, the City of Elgin welcomes eligible candidates to explore this opportunity.
For full details, forms, and election updates, visit the City of Elgin Elections & Voting page.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
