By Lorrie Ross
Staff Writer
Elections Board office relocation July 22
The Town of Hayesville will have a new mayor-elect in November. After overseeing the town since 2013, incumbent Hayesville Mayor Harry Baughn has decided not to run for reelection as mayor; however he is seeking a seat on the board.
At press time Wednesday, July 14, only one person had filed to run for the mayoral position. According to director of the Clay County Board of Elections, Rebecca Hall, the only official candidate for mayor is Hayesville town councilman Joe Slaton.
Despite not running for the town’s highest elected office, Baughn is likely to remain involved in the business of running the town. All three town council seats are open for the Nov. 2 election and Baughn has filed to run for town council.
In addition to the council seat currently held by Joe Slaton, who is also chair of the town council, current council seats are held by Austin Hedden and Lauren Tiger. At press time, Hedden had not filed for reelection while Lauren Tiger has filed and will be on the ballot. Tiger replaced Will Penland on the town council in April after Penland moved outside the city limits.
Anyone who wants to run for town office, has until 12 p.m. Friday, July 16 to file. Hayesville residents who want to register to vote may do so until 25 days before the election. Other Clay County residents may register to vote anytime.
Stop by Clay County Board of Elections Office at 54 Church Street until July 21. The Board of Elections will occupy a new office space as of Thursday, July 22. The BOE will be at 75 Riverside Circle, downstairs in the Clay County Community Services Building or the old health department. Call (828) 89-6812 for details or visit: www.claycountyboardofelections.com.