Independent qualifying begins June 28

Any candidate wishing to run as an independent should visit the Barrow County Elections Office located at 233 E. Broad Street in Winder to obtain a petition. In order to qualify, candidates must present a petition signed by a percentage of voters as determined by the position being sought.

In addition to obtaining the required signatures, independents must pay an $18 fee to qualify for a school board seat and a $180 fee to run for the board of commissioners.

Qualifying for democratic and republican candidates ended April 30. Local races to be decided in this year’s election include commission seats 4, 5 and 6 as well as school board seats 1, 3, 4, 7 and 9.

The primary election is set for Tuesday, July 20. If a run-off is necessary it will be held on Tuesday, August 10. The winners of the primary races will face any declared independent candidates in the November 2 general election.

Candidates wishing to qualify as independents should contact the Barrow County Elections Office at 770-307-3110. The qualifying period for independents ends on Friday, July 2 at noon.