As election filing begins, Cape Fear-area voters are reminded to check their registration status and stay up to date with election deadlines.

Election season is upon us, which means that it’s time for an annual refresher on the timeline and requirements to ensure that everything goes smoothly on Election Day. While the 2025 Municipal Election isn’t likely to draw the same crowds as the 2024 presidential race, dozens of seats are up for grabs in the Cape Fear region.

Whether you’re a first-time voter or running for office, here’s what you need to know before you cast your vote this fall.

When is election filing?

For candidates, filing begins at 8 a.m. July 7 and ends at noon July 18. Filing fees range from $6 to $250, depending on the office.

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When is early voting?

The voter registration deadline is Friday, Oct. 10. Early voting begins on Thursday, Oct. 16. The absentee ballot request deadline is Tuesday, Oct. 21. Early voting ends on Saturday, Nov. 1.

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When is Election Day?

The 2025 Municipal Election will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 4. The county canvass of election results will take place on Friday, Nov. 14.

Polling place information can be found on the New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender county websites.

What races are on the ballot?

Here’s what’s on the ballot in New Hanover County:

  • City of Wilmington Council Member

  • Town of Carolina Beach Mayor

  • Town of Carolina Beach Council Member

  • Town of Kure Beach Commissioner

  • Town of Wrightsville Beach Mayor

  • Town of Wrightsville Beach Alderman

Here’s what’s on the ballot in Brunswick County:

  • Bald Head Island Council Member

  • Boiling Spring Lakes Mayor

  • Boiling Spring Lakes Commissioner

  • Carolina Shores Commissioner

  • Caswell Beach Commissioner

  • Holden Beach Commissioner

  • Oak Island Council Member

  • Ocean Isle Beach Commissioner

  • Sandy Creek Council Member

  • Sunset Beach Council Member

  • Brunswick Regional Water and Sewer

  • Southeast Brunswick Sanitary District

  • Dosher Hospital Board of Trustees

Here’s what’s on the ballot in Pender County:

  • Town of Atkinson Commissioner

  • Town of Burgaw Commissioner

  • Town of Surf City Council Member

  • Town of Topsail Beach Mayor

  • Town of Watha Commissioner

  • Village of St. Helena Mayor

  • Village of St. Helena Councilman

Daniel Sheehan covers the city of Wilmington and New Hanover County for the StarNews. Reach him at dsheehan@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Election filing, early voting, ballots in Wilmington, NC

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