The city commission's decision to test-drive a mail-ballot election has pushed forward several deadlines for registered and non-registered Helena voters.

- Those who want to receive a mail ballot but are not registered or have moved must register at the county Clerk and Recorder's Office in the City-County Building by Oct. 9 at 5 p.m.

- Late registration begins Oct. 10 at 8 a.m. Eligible voters can register and vote at the Clerk and Recorder's Office until Nov. 6 at 8 p.m.

- Absentee voters who will not be at their residence during the election may vote at the Clerk and Recorder's Office, or they may send a written request for their ballot to be mailed to a different address until noon on Oct. 18.

- Ballots will be mailed Friday Oct. 19.

- The election doesn't close until Nov. 6. Voters who want to go to the polls can do so on that day.

- Residents seeking a seat on the Helena Citizens Council must file at the Clerk and Recorder's Office by 5 p.m. on Oct. 9.

This year's ballot includes two city commission seats; the city judge's position; a $7.85-million parks-improvement bond; and two non-binding referenda -- one calling for the orderly and safe withdrawal of troops from Iraq and the other asking Congress to support the military in the war on terrorism.

Incumbents Paul Cartwright and Bob Throssell are running for re-election to the city commission.

Joining them in the field is former commissioner Jack Stults and SAVE Foundation Director Matt Elsaesser. The top two vote getters will be named to the commission.

City Prosecutor Bob Wood and former Townsend Judge Tori Marion are up for the city bench. Incumbent Myron Pitch did not seek re-election.

All 28 seats on the Helena Citizens Council are up for re-election.

Reporter Larry Kline: 447-4075 or larry.kline@helenair.com.