BY MELANIE BUCK –
The Polk County Election Commission installed new member, Bernie Mize, on Friday, January 16, 2015, taking the seat of retired Judge Gale Ford. Mize, a Republican, will serve as vice-chair alongside Republican Chair Richard Ray, and Democrat David Ray. Terri Harrison, Polk County Clerk, serves the commission as well.
Chair Richard Ray said, “This is a historic event. Since 1873, the state of Arkansas has been a democrat majority state and, as of this month, it’s a republican majority state. That means that from a Republican standpoint, all seven of the constitutional offices are Republicans, all four members of the House of Representatives are Republicans, both Senators are Republicans. We look forward to a productive year.”
Mize said, “I’m happy to be here and I’m eager to learn and eager to get to work.”
The commission also discussed the possible special election for the proposed one-cent tax to build and maintain a new Polk County Jail. School board elections will be held in September.
The Election Commission is also seeking poll workers for future elections. Some polls are being combined due to the lack of workers. Grannis is being folded in to Wickes and Vandervoort is being joined with Cove. Harrison said the citizens from those affected areas have contacted her stating they would like to keep their polling places. “I explained to them that they could have their polls back if we could come up with poll workers in enough time to attend training,” stated Harrison. Those interested in keeping those polls open by becoming a poll worker can contact Teri Harrison at 479-394-8123.
About Author
Jeri Pearson
Jeri is the News Director for Pulse Multi-Media and Editor of The Polk County Pulse. She has 10 years of experience in community focused journalism and has won multiple press association awards.
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