Our Voting History

When the office of mayor is not contested, the voter turnout for the citizens of Buckhannon is surprisingly low. In 2006, three candidates were running for two open council seats. When the final vote count was complete, 535 citizens cast their votes and the difference between the three candidates was only 13 votes! The candidate vote totals were 186, 176 and 173.

The 2010 municipal non mayoral election has at least five candidates running for city council. If the voter turnout is similar to 2006, the math alone could predict a winner with as few as 113 votes. That to me is a startling low number. If you are reading this blog, my bet is that you will be voting either for me (I hope) or another candidate. It's the people not reading this blog that I want to reach. Please forward this to people you know who live in the city and encourage them to vote in the June 8th election.

If you want to make a difference in city government, please vote. It is critically important that your voice be heard. I ask that you consider Scott Preston as your choice for city council.

Some importrant voting reminders:

• The city election is June 8th. Voting takes place at city hall, 70 east Main Street, between 6:30am and 7:30pm.
• You must be registered to vote and it is very easy. Both city hall and the county court house have registration forms. I believe all you need to register is a picture ID and proof of residency. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, rent receipt or similar item.
• If you will not be able to vote on June 8th there are a couple or options. You can vote absentee by mail. A mail-in ballot is available at city hall. I believe you must state a reason for your mail in ballot such as away for vacation or out of town for work. The staff at city hall can answer any questions.
• Your other voting option is early voting. Early 'No Excuse' voting begins May 19th and concludes June 5th. Voting hours are 9:00am till 5:00pm. There are two Saturdays available for early voting: May29th and June 5th again between 9:00am and 5:00pm.
• If you have any questions about voting or registration please contact either city hall at 304.472.1651 or Upshur County clerk's office at 304.472.1068.