The short timetable for the as-yet-to-be-set date for the special election to replace Ellen Tauscher in the 10th Congressional District has created an interesting dilemma for candidates who would rather submit signatures than the $1,740 filing fee.

Even though no election date has been set, the deadline to submit signatures in lieu of a fee in order to become a candidate is MONDAY, JULY 6.

Deputy Registrar Candy Lopez explained the reasons why there is a deadline to file for an election that does not yet exist but frankly, the explanation was above my very low pay grade.

Suffice to say, if you want to avoid the fee and gather signatures, get down to the election office ASAP and pick up the forms because they are due on Monday by 5 p.m. And the election offices are closed Friday for the July 4 holiday.

Here are the details from the Contra Costa elections folks:

Ellen O. Tauscher filed her official resignation as the United States Representative for the 10th Congressional District of California.
In addition to Contra Costa County, the 10th Congressional District also covers parts of Alameda, Solano and Sacramento counties.
Candidates must be U.S. citizens for 7 years, at least 25 years of age and reside in the State of California when elected.
Candidates may obtain petitions to gather signatures-in-lieu of the $1,740 filing fee. The deadline to file signatures-in-lieu is 5:00 p.m. on Monday, July 6, 2009.
Petitions may be obtained at the Contra Costa County Elections Division located at 555 Escobar Street, Martinez. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. except for state holidays. The office will be closed on Friday, July 3rd in observance of the Independence Day holiday.
To obtain additional information regarding the above, you may call Candidate Services at the Election Division at (925) 335-7800 or 1-877-335-7802.