GOPIP Advocacy

Voter Resource Center

The Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress is proud to be a trusted “Get Out the Vote” resource for our community. It’s about participation – not politics; and our initiative is completely non-partisan and focused on distributing information and resources that increase voter turnout.

If we want a world class community bursting with economic opportunity, great schools, and safe neighborhoods, then we need more Ottumwans making their voices heard at the ballot box.

Why? Because #WeMeanBusiness

REGISTER TO VOTE

Your voice matters! Registering to vote is the first step in shaping the future of our community. Whether you’re a first-time voter or need to update your registration, make sure you’re ready for the next election. Click the image to check your registration status and get started today!

WHERE DO I VOTE?

Knowing where to cast your ballot is essential for making your vote count. Find your designated polling place and make a plan to vote on Election Day. Click the image to locate your polling place and get important details about voting in your area.

AM I REGISTERED?

Make sure you’re ready to vote! Checking your voter registration status is quick and easy. Click the image to confirm your registration, update your information, or find out how to register if you haven’t yet. Your vote matters—be prepared!

HOW DO I VOTE?

Voting is your opportunity to make a difference! Whether you’re voting in person, by mail, or during early voting, it’s important to know the process. Click on the image to learn about your voting options, key deadlines, and what to bring to the polls.

MILITARY/OVERSEAS VOTING

Serving abroad doesn’t mean you have to miss out on voting. Military members, their families, and U.S. citizens overseas have special options to securely cast their ballots. Click the image to learn how to register, request a ballot, and ensure your vote counts—no matter where you are in the world.

ELECTED OFFICIALS

Stay informed about the leaders making decisions that impact your community. Learn who represents you at the local, state, and federal levels, and find their contact information. Click the image to connect with your elected officials and make your voice heard.

Nomination Papers Now Available

This year the City/School Election will be held on November 4, 2025. Three Council seats will become open this fall along with one Mayor seat. Both elected positions are four-year terms. The terms determined by this November’s election become effective at noon on January 7, 2026.

Citizens interested in running for these offices may now obtain a Candidate’s Guide, nomination papers, and an affidavit of candidacy from the City Clerk’s Office at 210 West Main Street, 2nd Floor of the Train Depot, Monday through Friday, 8:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. The forms are also available at the Wapello County Auditor’s Office or online from the Iowa Secretary of State at https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/electioninfo/cityelections.html.

Any resident of the City of Ottumwa, whether registered to vote or not, 18 years of age, who has not been convicted of a felony, unless pardoned by the governor, nor declared mentally incompetent, may seek public office. Nominees for City Council and Mayor must obtain at least 75 signatures from eligible electors, but are encouraged to get more than the minimum. Persons signing the nomination papers must give their name, address (place of residence, not a post office box or mailing address), and the date they signed the nomination paper. The signers must still be eligible electors when the papers are filed.

Candidates may begin filing paperwork at the City Clerk’s office on August 25, 2025. The Affidavit of Candidacy must be signed in the presence of a Notary Public. The last day to file nomination papers and affidavit of candidacy is Thursday, September 18, 2025 by 5:00 P.M.

Citizens with questions about filing for candidacy in this City/School Election may contact the City Clerk, Chris Reinhard at 641.683.0620 or Deputy Auditor, Danielle Weller, at the Wapello County Auditor’s Office (641.683.0014).