Low voter turnout mars elections

More than 80 percent of Jasper residents failed to vote during Saturday's election.

While some may blame Mother's Day weekend and other will blame it on the Lions Club Benefit Rodeo, several candidates believe apathy is the best way to describe it.

"I was very surprised with how low the voter turnout was," said Jasper city council candidate Gayle Meigs, who was defeated by Randy Sayers 179-177 for the District 2 seat.

"There was not any real controversial issues on the ballot and when there not any, you don't get any type of voter turnout," Meigs said. "I was afraid there would be a lot of apathy but there always is in city elections."

Jasper Mayor David Barber, who defeated R.C. Horn in the mayor's race, said while the numbers may appear to be down, he believes they are on par with the surrounding area's elections.

"I think it's important that everybody get out and vote who is eligible to vote and voice their opinion," Barber said.

"I would like to see more people voting but if you look at averages most cities have a 20-25 percent turnout," Barber said. "I wish we would do better but that's just the way we are in this country."

Horn believes the turnout, while low, was far greater than the last time he faced off against Barber for the mayor's post.

"The last time we ran we have a very low turnout," Horn said. "There were no other races going on at the same time.

"But I believe people need to exercise their right to vote and I'm not saying vote for me but just get out and vote," Horn said. "Because when they get out and vote, they can make a difference."

School board candidate Kevin Kipp said he believed he had a good chance of winning "if everybody showed up to vote."