Austin City Council Member Paige Ellis will not be pursuing a third term in office after her petition for candidacy was rejected by the city’s clerk. Ellis, who represents District 8, encompassing areas of South and Southwest Austin, had submitted a petition containing over 3,400 signatures in her attempt to run again.
According to the city’s charter, candidates who have reached their term limit can seek an additional term if they gather support from 5% of qualified voters within their district. In Ellis’ case, she required 3,044 valid signatures to qualify for the ballot. However, city officials determined that her petition fell short by 62 signatures, resulting in its rejection.
Ellis’ current term is set to conclude in January, having served two four-year terms in office. She had expressed her desire to run for another term to complete several unfinished projects.
As the election approaches this November, voters in District 8 will choose between Selena Xie, former leader of the Austin EMS Association, and Jeffery Bowen, a previous candidate for mayor.
