On October 1, 2015, ICMA President Pat Martel sent letters to the 42 former vice presidents eligible to serve as ICMA President-elect in 2016-2017 asking them to declare their interest in the position by January 19, 2016. Former vice presidents who are still working for a local government are eligible. Past presidents of ICMA, as well as state and affiliate presidents. are being asked to contact those they think would make good candidates and encourage them to run. For some former vice presidents, hearing encouragement from a respected colleague could make the difference in their decision to become candidates. 

Interested candidates should submit a statement of interest and four to eight letters of support. If more than three candidates express interest, the ICMA Executive Board will conduct a pre-selection process at the February board meeting. Board members will interview finalists and make their selection on June 3, 2016. The president-elect takes office at the conclusion of the 102nd ICMA Annual Conference in Kansas City, Missouri, September 28, 2016.