Bluff opens candidate declarations for 2025 election; three seats available, filings close Friday at 5 p.m.

Town Manager Erin Nelson reported that declarations for the 2025 Bluff Town Council elections opened the previous day. Three seats are open: the mayoral seat and two council seats. Qualified Bluff residents may declare in person at the Bluff Town offices between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. through Friday; staff emphasized the office’s 5:00 p.m. hard stop and said filings must be completed and signed in person.

Nelson said candidates should expect to spend approximately 30 to 45 minutes completing the declaration packet at the office. The packet includes a more extensive conflict-of-interest statement this year required under Utah State code; candidates who wish to use a name other than their legal name on the ballot must file an affidavit signed by five individuals attesting that they are commonly known by that name.

Town staff noted that, if a primary is required, the town would expect to spend between $5,000 and $11,000 to hold the primary election, plus additional costs for the general election. Declaration packets and candidate information will be uploaded to the town website and transmitted to the county and the state after filing.

Council members asked about guidance materials and the packet contents; staff said the lieutenant governor’s office has provided webinars and that the town packet includes links to the statutory conflict-of-interest guidance. Candidates will receive additional financial‑disclosure and election information from the county once declarations close.

No formal council action was required; the item was informational.