Don’t like the choices?
How a write-in vote comes into play
One might think that there is always a choice for an elected position. That if one doesn’t like the options on the ballot, a voter could simply write in the name of a person that they would like to see serve in the position. And that is possible, but only if the race is on the ballot. But even if a race is on the ballot, a write-in candidate — even if he or she were to win the majority of the votes — wouldn’t be elected unless the required election paperwork had been submitted.
So those who would like to see an alternate candidate for Trustee Area 1 on the Feather River College Board for example, are out of luck. Trustee Area 1 represents the eastern end of Plumas County. Graeagle resident Dr. James Meyers had been serving in that position and initially filed to retain his seat. Lake Davis resident Trent Saxton also filed his nomination papers. When Meyers later withdrew his papers, that left Saxton as the only candidate. When no one else came forward, Saxton was awarded the seat and will take his position on the board at its December meeting. Though some have mentioned the possibility of a write-in alternative, that is not an option.
The Feather River College Trustee seat that will be on the ballot is that of Trustee Area 4 representing Indian Valley. And this race should be of interest to all Plumas County voters — not just those in Indian Valley — as the seat is elected at-large in the county. In this race Margaret Garcia is challenging incumbent Guy McNett. This is an example of a situation where an interested person could become a qualified write-in candidate.
In upcoming issues of this newspaper, we will be profiling the candidates who are running for office. Such coverage has become more challenging for newspapers — particularly in all mail ballot scenarios — since registered voters can cast their ballots over a month-long period. Expect to see photos of the individuals, brief bios, their reasons for seeking office, and answers to questions geared to their particular offices in the following weeks.
Additionally, the League of Women Voters has announced several forums to introduce candidates to their constituents. Thus far, the candidates for Congressional District 1 will be featured Sept. 17 at the fire hall in Graeagle. A Seneca Health Care District forum is scheduled for Sept. 25 at the Chester Memorial Hall, and the Portola City Council hopefuls will meet Sept. 27 at the Portola Memorial Hall. All forums are set from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Reminders of these opportunities will be published as these dates approach, as well as any other forums that might be scheduled.