Council Recap: 2026 General Municipal Election

Council Recap: 2026 General Municipal Election

Published on January 28, 2026

At their Jan. 27 meeting, the Lakewood City Council adopted a series of resolutions setting the groundwork for the City's 2026 General Municipal Election.

The actions formally set the election date, coordinate election services with Los Angeles County and adopt regulations governing candidate statements.

The City's General Municipal Election will be held on June 2, 2026, the same day as the statewide primary election. Voters will elect three City Council Members representing Districts 1, 2 and 5, each serving a four-year term.

State law and the Lakewood Municipal Code require the City Council to adopt resolutions in advance of each municipal election to officially call the election and establish key administrative procedures.

Consolidation with Los Angeles County

The Council also approved a resolution requesting that the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors consolidate Lakewood's municipal election with the statewide election.

Through consolidation, the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk will administer and oversee major election functions, including ballot printing, vote centers, staffing, vote tabulation, and certification of results.

The City Clerk's Office will continue to manage candidate nomination filings, required disclosures and the publication of official City election notices.

Candidate Statement Regulations

In addition, the Council adopted regulations governing candidate statements submitted by individuals running for City Council. These rules establish word limits, formatting requirements, translation provisions, and cost responsibilities for candidate statements included in official voter information materials, as required by state election law. The regulations apply only to the June 2, 2026 election.

Ensuring a Smooth Election Process

City officials noted that these actions are procedural in nature and are intended to ensure the 2026 election is conducted efficiently, transparently and in compliance with state law.

The nomination period for candidates will open on Feb. 9, 2026, and close on March 6, 2026, unless extended under state election rules.

• Council Recap