Filing period opens for Modesto election

The filing period opens today for mayor and three seats on the Modesto City Council in the November election.

Mayor Garrad Marsh is running for a second and final term. Councilman Dave Lopez is running against Marsh. Former Mayor Carmen Sabatino is expected to take out nomination papers, according to the city clerk’s office.

Council Districts 1, 3 and 6 also are up for election.

In District 1, northwest Modesto, incumbent John Gunderson is seeking a second term. Mani Grewal and Ron Hurst have filed paperwork with the city announcing their intention to challenge him.

In District 3, central Modesto, Lopez is being termed out of office. Kristi Ah You and Joe Williams are running to succeed him.

In District 6, northeast Modesto, Dave Cogdill Jr. is not running for a second term. Doug Ridenour and Dave Wright have filed paperwork announcing their intention to run.

The filing period is through Aug. 7, though it will be extended to Aug. 12 for District 6 because the incumbent is not running.

City Clerk Stephanie Lopez asked prospective candidates to make an appointment with her office to review the paperwork and process for running for office. Candidates can call 209-577-5396 to make an appointment.

Candidates must have registered to vote in the city 30 days before filing their nomination papers and must live in the city. (Council candidates must live in the district they want to represent.)

Besides the mayoral and council races, Modesto voters will vote on a half-percent general sales tax the city has placed on the ballot and a citizens initiative for an urban growth boundary that pushes growth to east Modesto along Claus Road. Development elsewhere beyond the city limits would require a citywide vote before it could proceed.

This story was originally published July 12, 2015 at 4:37 PM with the headline "Filing period opens for Modesto election."