To run for city council, a person must reside in the state for three years, be a U.S. citizen and not have committed a felony. Question 18 options: If one is not in the state for three years, is not a U.S. citizen, or has committed a felony, he cannot run for city council. Non-U.S. citizens who have not been in the state for three years or who have committed a felony cannot run for city council. To run for city council, a person must reside in the state for three years, be a U.S. citizen