The dates have been set for the special election to replace Hennepin County Commissioner Gail Dorfman, who has submitted her resignation to take a new job.
Candidates who want to run for the Third District seat representing St. Louis Park and southwest Minneapolis can file beginning March 24. The filing period closes at 5 p.m. on April 7.
A week later, absentee voting begins for the April 29 primary. The special election will be May 13.
Just a week after the special election, the filing period opens for the November general election and the process begins anew. Generally, however, the winners of special elections have the substantial advantage of being the incumbent on the fall ballot.
Dorfman has been on the board for 15 years. She took office in a special election as well.
ROCHELLE OLSON
