Amarillo mayoral candidate Michael Hunt headlined the list of candidates who filed their applications for a spot on the ballot on Wednesday.

On the first day of ballot filings, catering company owner Michael Hunt led the pack of candidates filing for their applications. Hunt, who is the first mayoral candidate to place their name on the ballot this cycle, is challenging incumbent Ginger Nelson.

In addition to Hunt, City Council Place 1 candidate Cole Stanley filed his application for the ballot. Stanley is facing Hobert “Gunny” Brown in the race to replace retiring Councilwoman Elaine Hays. Brown has not yet filed his application, but is expected to in the coming days.

City Council incumbents Freda Powell and Howard Smith also filed their applications on Wednesday. Powell, the Place 2 incumbent, and Smith, the Place 4 incumbent, are the only candidates on the ballot so far in their races.

Candidates can file for the ballot through Friday, February 12. Election Day is May 1.

For information on how to file for the ballot, contact Amarillo City Secretary Frances Hibbs by calling (806) 378-3014 or emailing frances.hibbs@amarillo.gov.