In a move designed to increase voter turnout, the state legislature voted to combine the school election with the city election this year.
Creston’s voter turnout in 2017 was 11.6% in the city election and 5.9% for the school elections.
“There’s going to be a lot on the ballot,” said Union County Auditor and Commissioner of Elections Sandy Hysell. “With everything that is on the ballot, we’re hoping for a really good turnout. We encourage everybody to get out there and vote.”
Instead of voting for school issues in September, voters will make those choices during the general election Nov. 5. There will be multiple ballots based on where the registered voter lives.
Previously, during the school election, precincts were consolidated and the polls were only open from noon to 8 p.m. With the combined election, all precincts will be open and the hours will be the same as previous general elections, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The secretary of state’s office will be mailing voter information cards to registered voters to inform them of their assigned polling places.
The ballot
The mayoral race and city council will be on the ballot for Creston residents. Three public measures to support a bond proposal for the McKinley Park Aquatic Center. Sept. 19th is the last date to file to be included on the mayoral ballot.
Those who reside in the Creston Community School District will vote for school board and the physical plant and equipment levy which requires renewal every 10 years. PPEL provides monies to be used for school related projects including constructing school houses or buildings, roads to school houses, and equipment.
Southwestern Community College has board elections in districts 2 and 8 and in district 1 to fill a vacancy.
Those with questions about the upcoming elections should contact the auditor’s office at 641-782-1701.
