SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- The Onondaga County Board of Elections will host a series of non-partisan seminars this year designed to teach people how to run for office in Central New York.

The seminars are geared toward candidates, campaign workers and poll watchers. They offer instructions on how to navigate the complex web of rules that governs local elections.

Each seminar will be held at the Board of Elections headquarters at 1000 Erie Blvd. West. Elections Commissioners Dustin Czarny and Michele Sardo will lead the seminars.

There will be three types of seminars offered:

Getting on the Ballot

May 30, 2 p.m.

Board of Elections headquarters

This will cover the differences between petition signatures versus caucus designations as well as the requirements and deadlines for 2018.

Petition Challenges and Defense

July 2, 2 p.m.

Board of Elections headquarters

This will cover the requirements for a petition challenge and how to defend against a challenge.

Poll Watchers Seminar

June 20, 2 p.m. (federal primary)

Sept. 6, 2 p.m. (local primary)

Oct. 30, 2 p.m. (general election)

Board of Elections headquarters

This will cover policies and procedures for poll watchers on Election Day.

Anyone interested in attending a seminar should email Elections Commissioner Dustin Czarny at dustinczarny@ongov.net to reserve a spot.