Raj Abhyanker, Parks and Recreation Commissioner Jeanne Bradford, Mayor Patrick Kwok, Orrin Mahoney--a former planning commissioner, Planning Commissioner Marty Miller and Councilwoman Dolly Sandoval all filed nomination papers with the city by the Aug. 12 deadline.

Candidates must be Cupertino residents and secure the signatures of at least 20 registered voters. The city also asks candidates to limit campaign spending to $26,000.

"Everyone who has taken out papers has qualified [to run for office]," said Kimberly Smith, Cupertino's city clerk, who administers the election process.

There will be three seats open on the city council on the Nov. 8 ballot.

The council has five members. In exchange for their duties, which include passing ordinances, levying taxes and awarding contracts, council members receive $618.85 in salary per month and receive medical and dental benefits.

Those elected serve four-year terms, with a two-term limit. Councilwoman Sandra James is termed out and will not be running in November. Both Sandoval and Kwok are seeking second terms.

Gilbert Wong, chairman of Cupertino's planning commission, had strongly considered a run for a seat. He requested the necessary documents in July but later changed his mind.

"My family is too important to me," Wong, the father of two infant daughters, said. "I'll still continue to be active in the community," he promised. "There are others ways to serve the community other than elected office."

More information on the candidates and the city council election process can be found at www.cupertino.org or by calling 408.777.3223.