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Curtis Gilbert
Minneapolis

Once again, Minneapolis wants to hike election filing fees

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The Minneapolis Charter Commission is making its third attempt to raise the cost of running for office in the city.

After seeing a staggering 35 candidates for office on last year's ballot, the commission decided to recommend that the city raise the filing fee for mayor from $20 to $250.

"I think we need a higher filing fee to ensure that the candidates who are on the ballot are viable candidates," said Barry Clegg, the commission's chair.

Captain Jack Sparrow, one of the less viable candidates, received fewer than 400 votes. But Sparrow said raising the fees is undemocratic.

"Maybe you all have plenty of money. You can afford $250," Sparrow said. "I can't afford it. A lot of people who are serious candidates can't afford it either."

Candidates who can't pay the fee can still have their names placed on the ballot if they gather 500 signatures.

Raising the fee would require a unanimous vote of the full City Council. Similar proposals failed twice last year, but backers say this time they have the support they need.