For those who didn’t take advantage of early voting, election day is tomorrow for the City of Oak Ridge. Polls will be open from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m., at precinct locations as follows (courtesy of the Oak Ridger)
• Emory Valley: Jefferson Middle School cafeteria
• Glenwood: Glenwood Elementary School entry foyer
• Hendrix Creek: Senior Center’s large meeting room
• Highland View: Children’s Museum gymnasium
• Oak Ridge City Hall: City Hall’s administration entrance
• Pine Valley: School Administration Building’s gymnasium
• Robertsville: Robertsville Middle School front lobby
• West Hills: Linden Elementary School gymnasium
• Woodland: Woodland Elementary School’s fourth-grade wing atrium
• Oak Hills/Lawnville (all Roane Co. Oak Ridgers): Oak Ridge Country Club’s meeting room
The Oak Ridge Observer published their endorsements at the beginning of early voting, and re-ran the information last Thursday (so it’s still on the newsstands). The Oak Ridger’s endorsements came out today, and their election tabloid is available online for anyone who’s still undecided.
Early voting turnout topped 3,000 this year; even if the early voting percentage climbs to 50%, that would predict an overall turnout approaching 6,000 voters — very good for a city election, by the usual standards. It could be somewhat higher.
Without question, Crestpointe has dominated the discussion in this election… even in the school board race. While I’m grateful that something drove voter interest, I also feel a bit sad that there has to be a divisive issue to drive voter turnout. But, it is what it is.
Come Wednesday morning, the face of City Council will have changed. By the end of this month, we will have a new mayor. We may have approval for the City to go forward with improving retail in Oak Ridge (the referendum is not specific to Crestpointe, and could just as easily be directed to a better proposal if one should emerge), or we may be branded as the city that calls a referendum on everything — making it far more difficult to attract the investors for needed developments.
If you live in Oak Ridge and haven’t already done so, stand up and be counted tomorrow.
Best ‘o’ luck to you Netmom. I’m confident that you will return to your well deserved seat on the school board.
Normally, with a higher than usual turn out I would be concerned for incumbents. However, with the CP issue on the ballot, that is out the window. I think the turn out is to vote in that single issue.
Good luck with this election. I see no serious problems.
I tend to think that a high turnout is to my benefit this year; it may be due to the bond issue, or it may be due to three open seats on Council. I don’t think it’s due to dissatisfaction with the school board.
In any case, it will be over tomorrow.
Good Luck and may the force be with you!!
Good luck, Netmom.