Martin to run unopposed

PRIEST RIVER — It’s that time again. Elections draw nigh. Once again, candidates will jockey for position and try to convince citizens why they should receive their support at the polling booth. Fear not though, there won’t be any television blitz of nonstop negative campaigning. This year’s election season is only for city government offices, and the candidates are few.

Mayor Jim Martin is up for reelection and has filed his declaration of candidacy, according to city clerk Laurel Thomas. The filing deadline was last Friday. Those who wanted to run but didn’t file in time will not be on the ballot on Nov. 7. No other candidates filed to run for the office of mayor, meaning that the incumbent will be the only mayoral candidate on the Nov. 7 ballot. Anyone who still wants to take a crack at the city’s top office will have to wage a write-in campaign.

Council members Gary Stewart and Peggy George are also up for reelection, and as of the deadline only Stewart had filed his declaration of candidacy. Not only had George declined to run again, but no other candidates filed to run for city council. George’s seat will become vacant unless someone runs as a write-in candidate. Thomas said if there is no write-in candidate to fill the seat, the city will appoint someone, much in the same way Stewart was appointed when Jeff Connolly resigned when he was elected county commissioner.

According to the Idaho Secretary of State elections website, write-in candidates need to file a declaration of intent with the city clerk by Oct. 10. For more information on how to become a write-in candidate, go to sos.idaho.gov/elect or contact Thomas during business hours at city hall located at 552 High St. or call 208-448-2123.