By John Estridge
Most of the 2020 ballot is ready to go.
There are a few holes like who is running for president, which might bring a little interest this year. And school board candidates’ sign up begins next Wednesday, July 15, and lasts until Friday, August 21.
Locally, the Franklin County Democratic Party added one candidate. Christina Chappelow Persson is running for county council at large. She is joined by the three Republicans who were the three top vote receivers in the Republican Primary. They are: incumbent Glen R. Bischoff, Carroll W. Lanning and Brian L. Patterson. Lanning was on council a few years ago.
Four other Republicans do not have an opponent. They include: Tom Wilson for county commissioner; Hollie R. Maxie for recorder; Jolene Beneker for treasurer; and Clay M. Kellerman for circuit court 2 judge. Wilson and Kellerman are incumbents. Maxie and Beneker have been first deputies in their respective offices.
Glenn E. Bailey, a Democrat, is the current surveyor. He was appointed by the Democratic caucus to take the place of the late Nathan Meyer after he passed away. Bailey will be opposed by Republican Robert G. Seig.
In Brookville’s election, there are races at almost every opportunity. Republican incumbent Curtis M. Ward is the only candidate who is unopposed. He is running for town councilman in Ward 5.
The other two open town council positions all have races without incumbents.
Republican Brooke N. Leffingwell is opposed by Democrat Gary “Gig” Marmouze for Ward 1. At Ward 3, Republican Charles “Chuck” Campbell is opposed by Democrat Darrel Flaspohler. Flaspohler is a former council member, but he moved out of his ward and had to resign from council.
At town clerk-treasurer, Democratic incumbent Gina Gillman is opposed by Republican Derrike Kolb. Kolb is currently the first deputy in the county’s auditor office.
The general election is set for Tuesday, Nov. 3.