Polk County seat covering East Grand Forks wards set for special election; filing opens Nov. 18

City Administrator Mr. Hutton told the East Grand Forks City Council on Nov. 4 that the Polk County board accepted a vacancy in the commission seat that covers Wards 3, 4 and 5 and set dates for a special election.

"The Polk County board met today and did accept the vacancy and then set dates for a special election because there's more than one year left on Mr. Holley's term," Mr. Hutton said, noting the county scheduled a Feb. 10, 2026 primary and, if needed, an April 14, 2026 general election. He said the filing period is expected to open Nov. 18 at Polk County offices in Crookston and will remain open for about a week.

Mr. Hutton asked prospective candidates to contact Polk County offices if they wish to file. The seat covers three East Grand Forks wards; the county's schedule will determine the next steps for election administration and any local notices.

Why it matters: The vacancy and special-election timetable set by Polk County determine when voters in the affected wards will select a replacement for the remainder of that term. City staff will coordinate with county election officials on filing and election logistics.

The council also received a separate announcement that the city will present an industrial-park bonding request to the Senate Capital Investment Committee in East Grand Forks on Nov. 12 (tentative) and that staff will circulate an invitation to council members who wish to attend. Parks/maintenance staff noted a community recognition event for Naomi Dunovan at the Crestwood Trail Head on Nov. 5 at 3 p.m.

Next steps: Interested candidates should contact Polk County election officials for filing details when the county opens the filing window; the city will share any additional local instructions or opportunities to observe the county process.