Here's What You Need to Know About The Preliminary Election

The ballots are official and the stage is set for the candidates in Pittsfield's upcoming municipal election, however, before we get to the main event on November 5th, there's a preliminary election on September 17th. Unlike a primary, a preliminary election has nothing to do with political party.

Who's on the Preliminary Ballot?

The preliminary election will narrow down candidates vying for seats on the City Council representing Ward's 5 and 6 as well as the office of the Mayor.
In Ward 5, the September election will cut the field from three to two, eliminating either Patrick Kavey, Jonathon Lothrop, or Eugene J. Maselli. In Ward 6, the four candidates, which include Craig Gaetani, Edward Carmel, Joseph Nichols and Dina Guiel Lampiasi will be cut in half, leaving two remaining.
The Office of Mayor currently has four candidates in the running as well, incumbent Mayor Linda Tyer, Councilor-at-Large Melissa Mazzeo, Karen M. Kalinowsky and Scott A. Graves, which will be narrowed down to just two candidates as well.

Dates You Need to Know

If you're not already registered to vote (check your voter status here) in order to be able to participate in the September 17 Preliminary election, you must register to vote by Wednesday, August 28. It's also the last to be able to make changes to your voter registration (address, party, etc). This is especially important if you have recently moved to Ward 5 or 6 and are still registered in your old ward.
If you cannot vote in person on September 17, for one of the follow reasons, you are eligible for an absentee ballot, which are available starting today. If you are a registered voter, but can't vote that day because you are absent from the city during normal polling hours, have a physical disability that prevent you from going to the polls, or cannot make it to the polls due to religious beliefs, you have the option to vote via absentee ballot. The deadline to apply for the absentee ballot is 12:20 p.m. on Monday September 16.
Voter Registration and Absentee Ballot Application forms are available from the Registrar of Voters’ Office in City Hall from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Office hours will be extended to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 28. If you have any questions, please call the Registrar of Voters’ Office at 499-9460