Community Corner

5 Things to Know About the Aug. 6 Primary Election in Dearborn

Learn how to apply for an absentee ballot and more useful information prior to the city primary election.

The Aug. 6 primary election is a week away. If you are unaware of who is running for office, where to vote, or how to file an absentee ballot, Patch has you covered.

1. Who is running for city council?

All nine elective offices in Dearborn are on the primary ballot — mayor, clerk and all seven city council seats. There are five candidates for mayor, three for clerk and 21 for council. To view information about the candidates, visit the Dearborn League of Women Voters website.

2. I will be out of town on Election Day. How do I obtain an absentee ballot?

Residents who are registered and qualify for an absentee ballot may apply for a ballot at the city clerk’s office in city hall from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. until Friday, Aug. 2. The clerk’s office will also be open on Saturday, Aug. 3 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. to process absentee ballot applications. Absentee ballot applications and additional information are also available by calling 943-2031 or 943-2032.

You may vote by absentee ballot if: 

  • You are 60 years old or older.
  • You are unable to vote without assistance at the polls.
  • You are expecting to be out of town on Election Day.
  • You are in jail awaiting arraignment or trial.
  • You are unable to attend the polls due to religious reasons.
  • You are appointed to work as an election inspector in a precinct outside of your precinct of residence.
3. Can I meet with a city council candidate?

Yes! The Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the League of Women Voters will host local candidates in Dearborn and Dearborn Heights making a bid for office at an event at Joe Vicari's Italian Steakhouse on Tuesday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Network with business leaders, community advocates and those running for office before the Aug. 6 primary. The event is free and open to the public. The event will take place at 21400 Michigan Ave. in Dearborn.

4. Where is my precinct?

You can check out the Secretary of State's website and enter your address to find your correct voting precinct ahead of the Aug. 6 primary. The website is available at https://webapps.sos.state.mi.us/mivote/.

5. What are the rules for political signage?

Political signs are permitted in residential areas or private property with consent of the property owner. Temporary ground signs placed near the road are not permitted within areas used for clear vision at intersections or commercial driveways, so they will not interfere with the sight distance of a driver. No signs may be placed within the limited access rights-of-way. Political ground signs at businesses can not be placed in the public easement. Signs must be removed within 10 days following an election.

For more information about political sign regulations in Dearborn, visit the city of Dearborn's website and download a temporary sign permit application. For questions on political signs, call 313-943-2000.

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