This is the first week candidates for municipal elections in Louisiana can qualify for their races.

In Bogalusa, the only municipal race this year will be the race for city council in District D. At present, Andy Deleon represents that district.

Deleon was picked to serve the remainder of the term for Malinda White, who was elected to the state House of Representatives last year. Deleon, who had been a councilman in the past, was picked Jan. 5.

Mayor Wendy Perrette explained Deleon can not run for the seat this year.

“Interim people are not allowed to run by city charter,” she said.

However, the mayor praised Deleon’s time on the board.

“Mr. Deleon’s been a pleasure to work with,” she said. “I’ve worked with him in the past and I’m sure that whoever comes from that district will work to move our city forward.”

Residents of Varnado, Angie and Franklinton will also elect city leaders.

The qualification period begins today and ends Friday and must be done at the Washington Parish Clerk of Court’s office at the courthouse in Franklinton.

The office will accept qualification paperwork from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and the fee is $80 for candidates of the Republican or Democratic parties, and $40 if the candidate is from another party or an independent.

The election will be Tuesday, Nov. 8.