COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- University District residents have until Thursday to submit their applications to serve as part of the University Area Commission for the next three years. The University Area Commission is seeking candidates to fill four commissioner vacancies, one from each of four districts in the area. In a special election held on Nov. 2, University District residents can vote on their representatives, with the winners certified on Nov. 12 by the UAC Board of Elections. Investigation opened into cat cruelty case near Ohio State UAC treasurer Seth Golding said the Saturday election date avoids competition and confusion with the general election on Nov. 5. He said he has seen a bit more competition this year than usual already, with at least two additional competitors to the four incumbents. The University District is composed of 13 distinct neighborhoods, which are sorted into one of four districts. The area covers less than three miles but is home to 35,899 residents. During the day, its population increases to nearly 90,000 to account for Ohio State's student and faculty populations. Commissioners serve as an advisory body to Columbus on zoning or planning projects that affect the area, according to the UAC website. Those interested in campaigning must submit their candidate petition packet and a resume to [email protected] by 4:30 p.m. Thursday. Anyone is eligible to run as long as they live in the district they are running for and be at least 18 as of Nov. 2. Interested parties can also email with questions about the experience if they are considering running. The petition includes a handful of personal questions, including community involvements and goals candidates have if they are elected commissioner. To successfully file a petition, hopeful candidates must also gather 30 signatures of support from other residents in their districts. Candidates are not permitted to sign their own petitions, according to the election packet. Write-in candidate packets will be available starting Thursday through Oct. 28. Write-in candidates must be signed by the person nominated and contain contact information and a statement that the candidate will abide by the election rules and by-laws. Write-in nominations and any candidates announcing their withdrawal from the campaign must be emailed to the UAC by 4:30 p.m. on Oct. 28. Ohio State-Nebraska kickoff time announced Once elected, commissioners will serve until December 2028. The UAC meets monthly at 6:30 p.m., and commissioners are required to attend. Newly elected commissioners will begin their terms at the Jan. 15 meeting. The UAC was established in 1972 by Columbus City Council to offer community input in decisions made involving the University District. Golding said the commission has 20 members, a combination of elected and appointed representatives with the following makeup: Three representatives from each of the four districts, totaling 12 neighborhood representatives. Three representatives from Ohio State University, with one staff member, one graduate student and one undergraduate student. Five representatives from various community organizations, the Council of Churches and the University Community Business Association. Golding encouraged all University District residents to take a moment to vote this year. Elections take place in person at the Northwood High Building, 2231 N. High St., from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.