Elections are conducted by Benton County. Elections for City candidates or measures can occur in:
- May of even-numbered years (Primary Election)
- November of even-numbered years (General Election)
- March of any year if needed (Special Election)
- May of odd-numbered years (Special District Election)
- November of odd-numbered years (Special Election)
The City Recorder coordinates and administers the City's municipal election activities including receiving filings from candidates for the positions of mayor and councilors and processing initiative, referendum, and recall petitions through Benton County's Elections office. The City Recorder prepares elections schedules, files measures for the ballot, and certifies the final election results.
The types of issues the City places on the ballot usually relate to Mayor and Council elections, proposed annexations, Charter amendments, and initiatives and referendum measures.
To be a registered voter, you must be:
- 18 years of age on the date of the next election
- Resident of the State of Oregon
- Resident of the City of Philomath for local measures and candidates
- Citizen of the United States
If you have not been registered to vote previously in the State, you must file 20 days prior to the next election date. If you have voted previously within the state, you need to check with Benton County Elections and you may be eligible to vote immediately. All prospective voters register with Benton County.