Special election set for March 6; deadline to register to vote is set for Feb. 4

The Special Election which will allow residents to cast votes for the recently recalled seats for District 5 and District 6 has been scheduled for Saturday, March 6, 2021. While the election is in the early stages, there are a few details that are set and ready to be dispersed to the community.

“Local seats are on the frontline to our view of how the government is working for the people,” Jodi Duck, Howard County Election’s Administrator, said. “We have a voice of who will represent us, and we have the power to choose the right people.”

Former Councilmember Jim Depauw, representative of District 6 and Former Councilmember Camilla Strande, representative of District 5 were officially recalled in the November election. Once the votes were canvassed the City Council set the date for the Special Election during a subsequent council meeting.

“Every vote counts and every vote matters,” Duck said. “Many local races are won by just three to five votes. “Special Elections are not common in Howard County. I believe the last one was in March 4, 2000 which was held to fill an unexpired term for the mayor seat.”

The Special Election for Districts 5 and 6 representatives will only be open for residents residing in those districts. Since the election is not contingent on any of the prior elections, voters did not have to cast a ballot in the November election to take part in the upcoming March election. However, for those who are not yet registered to vote, registration and updates need to be completed before Feb. 4.

At this time, according to Duck, the election locations have not yet been determined. Before the special election takes place an amended order will be issued naming the polling places and special procedures.

To get registered to vote or for more information, call the Howard County Elections Office at 432-264-2273.