Running for Office

Monticello City Council

The City of Monticello City Council is comprised of 8 Alderpersons, 1 Mayor, 1 City Clerk, and 1 City Treasurer.

Each Alderperson holds office for a term of 4 years. The terms of office for the 2 Alderpersons in each ward are staggered so that 1 Alderperson is elected from each ward every 2 years.

The Mayor, City Clerk and City Treasurer all hold a term of office for 4 years.

Persons interested in running for a position on the City of Monticello City Council are encouraged to check with the City Clerk for dates associated with future elections.

Candidate Requirements & Qualifications- (65 ILCS 5/3.1-10.5)

  • 1 year residency within the ward of office preceding the consolidated election.
  • Must be a registered voter.
  • Must not be in arrears in payment of tax or other indebtedness due to the City of Monticello.
  • Must not have been convicted of an infamous crime, bribery, perjury or other felony.

The Role of an Alderman (2019 election)

The City of Monticello is an Mayor-Aldermanic form of government, with a City Administrator responsible for daily operations.

The City of Monticello is divided into four wards. Two aldermen from each ward are elected to represent their ward on the City Council. Members of the City Council do receive compensation for their service, although they do not have offices or regular office hours. Mail should be directed to their attention at the Monticello Municipal Building, 210 N Hamilton, Monticello, Illinois 61856. City Council members also receive a city-affiliated email address.

Council members must attend regular city council meetings held the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month, unless the Monday is an official city holiday. Special meetings such as study sessions may also be scheduled with advanced notice.

Aldermen are representative of their wards, and may upon occasion receive communication from constituents. Aldermen are subject to the regulations set forth in the Open Meetings Act, and OMA training.

2021 Election

The next consolidated primary election for City of Monticello elected positions will be in February, 2021, and the next consolidate election will be April, 2021. The following positions will be determined at this election: 

  • Ward 1, Alderman
  • Ward 2, Alderman
  • Ward 3, Alderman
  • Ward 4, Alderman
  • Mayor

Important deadlines for candidates regarding the 2021 election will be posted in fall, 2020.

DescriptionConsolidated PrimaryConsolidated Election
First day to circulate
 nomination petitions

Candidates Filing Period

Last day to file objections to nominating papers for candidates

Last day for election official to certify candidates to election authority

Last day to file a declaration of intent to be a write-in candidate

Consolidated Primary Election

Consolidated Election


Signatures Required for PetitionConsolidated PrimaryConsolidated Election
Ward 1

Ward 2

Ward 3

Ward 4


Ward Map

View a map of the City of Monticello's ward boundaries (PDF):

  • Ward 1 - Northeast quadrant
  • Ward 2 - Southeast quadrant
  • Ward 3 - Southwest quadrant
  • Ward 4 - Northwest quadrant

For More Information
For more information, contact the City of Monticello at 217.762.2583.