Kathy Estes, chair of Sun City West’s election committee, said candidates for the community’s governing board must pick up a packet and collect 200 owner-member signatures to qualify for the March election.

Estes said packets became available Nov. 3 and that packet pickup continues through Jan. 2, when signed packets and a biographical sketch of 500 words or fewer must be delivered to the governing board executive assistant. "They have to have their packet turned in, with 200 signatures, and their biographical sketch," she said, and recommended collecting about 220 signatures to allow for validation losses.

Why it matters: the governing board will shape several upcoming initiatives, including a community master plan that Estes said newly elected directors will help guide. With three regular seats scheduled for election this year and one additional vacancy, the fourth-highest vote-getter will be appointed to fill that extra term, she said.

What candidates must know: Estes clarified eligibility and procedural details. Only "owner members" in good standing may run — defined as people listed on the property deed, not associate members or tenants, and who are current on dues. Candidates should plan for outreach and participation in candidate forums, meet-and-greets and orientations that take place between filing and election day.

Estes offered practical filing guidance: "Pick up a packet, get started getting your signatures," she said. In addition to the 200 validated signatures, candidates must submit a 500-or-less-word biographical sketch to the governing board executive assistant by Jan. 2. She noted the community election is expected on March 30 (the last Monday in March), and that candidates have opportunities to introduce themselves to residents in the months before the vote.

Advice and preparation: Estes encouraged prospective candidates to speak with current or former directors to learn about board responsibilities, watch informational videos at thesuncitywest.com and attend committee and board meetings. She said the Torch program often produces informed candidates by giving participants insight into how the community operates.

Next steps: candidate packets remain available through Jan. 2; proponents and prospective candidates should contact the governing board executive assistant for submission instructions and any clarifications about eligibility or documentation.