Residents of Newton are gearing up for the upcoming local elections, with several candidates officially filing their nominations for key positions within the city council, mayoral office, and school board. This past week, the deadline for candidate submissions passed, leading to a competitive race in the community.
According to the Jasper County Auditor’s Office, four individuals are vying for spots on the school board. Incumbents Robyn Friedman, Travis Padget, and Ray Whipple will be challenged by newcomer Hilary Foster. Foster has actively participated in school board meetings and various educational initiatives, positioning herself as a strong candidate for this important role.
On the city council front, Melissa Dalton plans to seek re-election for her position in Ward 2. Dalton, who won her seat by a narrow margin of just 24 votes in the 2021 elections, faces the challenge of maintaining her support. Her opponent, Ethan Haas, garnered 282 votes, while Dalton received 306.
The Ward 4 city council seat is also up for grabs, currently held by Steve Mullan, who was appointed after former council member Vicki Wade announced her departure from the position to relocate. Mullan, a veteran council member, looks to solidify his standing in the community.
Meanwhile, Jeff Holschuh, who previously ran for school board in 2021, is contesting the at-large seat currently occupied by Randy Ervin. Ervin was appointed following the election of Evelyn George as mayor in 2023. George, who has decided not to seek re-election, noted in July that she would step back from her role. Ervin, who lost a close mayoral race to George by only 13 votes, has expressed strong interest in returning to the mayoral race. He stated in August that he wants to honor George’s long service to the community before officially announcing his candidacy.
At present, all city and school board races remain uncontested unless new write-in campaigns emerge.
As the election process unfolds, key dates are approaching for residents. Absentee voting will commence in-person at the Jasper County Courthouse on October 15, 2024, with ballots also being mailed on that date. The deadline to request an absentee ballot is 5 p.m. on October 20. Voters will have until November 3 to cast absentee ballots in person. Finally, Election Day is set for November 4, where voters will head to various assigned precincts to make their voices heard.
With the local elections on the horizon, Newton residents will be closely watching the candidates as they prepare for a pivotal moment in their community’s governance.
