Jamesport approves half-cent sales tax for city park improvements
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Although yesterday’s election attracted a low voter turnout (just 19% of those eligible to vote), many ballot decisions tallied decisive results. Two votes were of particular interest.
A half-cent sales tax to benefit Jamesport city parks was heartily endorsed. Money raised will be used to modernize the community building with handicap accessible restrooms as well as fund sidewalk improvements, playground equipment purchases, and provide various other improvements to the livestock building, shelter house and city park.
Headlining candidate races was the decision for Gallatin mayor. Incumbent Mayor John Thomas defeated challenger Gene Schweizer, 219-162. Mr. Schweizer previously served as mayor only to resign, yet continued to be vocal in his views at public meetings at city hall. The election was viewed as a chance to measure public sentiments on the divergent opinions focusing primarily on the handling of the city’s budget and other financial matters.
Two candidates for aldermen whom Mr. Schweizer endorsed in their bids for seats on the board of aldermen were also defeated at the polls yesterday. But apathy, more than voter interest in local politics, mark election results. A total of 1,307 persons were eligible to vote in Gallatin’s municipal election, but only 29% of those eligible cast votes.
Yesterday’s election is stamped by the number of uncontested decisions on ballots across the county as well as by the large number of write-in results where not enough candidates declared for uncontested election positions. The following summarizes two significant write-in results:
Central Dispatch (911) District One — There were 23 names written onto ballots submitted by voters but only two names received more than one vote: Barbara Champlin 6, and Lynn Curtis 2. This election was to select a board member to serve a 4-year term.
Daviess County Health Department — There were 39 names written onto ballots submitted by voters. Seven names submitted received more than one vote: David Roll 6, Geraldine Hamby 6, Beverly Lang 2, Sam Boyd 2, Pam Howard 2, Marie Toney 2, and Sue Downey 2. This election was to select one director to serve a 2-year unexpired term.
These results are certified by the county clerk’s office to the involved boards, but guidelines concerning the actual selection process are not specified. Existing board members may determine who is to fill board vacancies, even regardless of the write-in votes.