The City Council will consider at its Nov. 21 meeting whether to call for a Feb. 3, 2024, mayoral special election following news of Mayor Jeff Bauknight’s intent to run for state representative for District 30.
To run for state office, the Texas Constitution requires Bauknight to formally “resign” as mayor but remain in his role until another mayor is elected.
All mayoral privileges and responsibilities are retained by Bauknight during this holdover period.
If the council approves the Feb. 3 election date, the filing period to seek the mayoral seat will begin immediately and will run through Dec. 4 in accordance with state law. Canvassing of the votes is anticipated to take place at a special City Council meeting Feb. 13.
Applications will be available at the City Secretary’s Office or online at www.victoriatx.gov/city-secretary.
The City charter states that a special election must be called because more than 180 days are left in Bauknight’s term. State law requires that the vacated position must be filled within 120 days by majority vote of the qualified voters at a special election called for such purpose.
Additionally, state law prohibits having an election 30 days before a general or general primary election. Victoria’s next general election is scheduled for May 4, 2024, and the primary election will take place March 5, 2024.
Stay connected
City Council meetings are hosted on the first and third Tuesday of each month at the City Council chambers, 105 W. Juann Linn St. Meetings are broadcast live on local cable channels 15 and 115 and livestreamed online at www.victoriatx.gov/tv15.