Early signs point to a crowded field of candidates this year for mayor in Springfield, Massachusetts.
A total of seven people took out nomination papers for mayor in the first few days the forms became available. Among them is three-term incumbent Domenic Sarno, former small business owner Sal Circosta, youth worker Johnnie Ray McKnight, and long time community organizer Michaelann Bewsee.
Election Commissioner Gladys Oyola said taking out nomination papers is not the same as being a serious candidate.
" In order to be certified to be on the ballot you have to return 500 valid signatures. So, 500 signatures that we would certify to place ( a candidate) on the ballot for mayor," she said.
The deadline to return the signed nomination papers is July 28.
If more than two candidates for mayor qualify for the ballot, there will be a preliminary election in September.
There are also contested races shaping up for seats on the city council, according to Oyola. There are five at-large councilors and eight ward seats.
Election day is Nov. 3
