It’s an election year coming up in Spink County and a perfect time for those who have the drive, desire and dedication to put their ideas and time to the test and run for office.

To use the words of 1968 presidential candidate on the Peace and Freedom ticket Eldridge Cleaver, “If you’re not part of the solution you are part of the problem.” With the state of the economy today and the problems faced by small rural towns and schools, a position on a board is not something that should be undertaken lightly. These representatives of the citizens in their area will need to be well aware of these matters before tossing their hat in the ring.

A glance through the legal section of the January 20 Redfield Press provides a look at what is coming open.

In Hitchcock-Tulare School District there is two-three year terms that will be up for election. They are the seats held by Randy Cole and Tom Tomsha. Those interested in running need to pick-up a nominating petition beginning January 29, 2010 at the Hitchcock-Tulare School District Business Manager’s Office and have that returned by February 26th to the same office.

The Redfield School District has two seats opening on the Board. Heather Jordan and Steve Nuhsbaumer currently occupy them. Interested applicants need to file with School Finance Officer Marilyn Hodges.

In Redfield there will be four chairs coming open for election. These include LueAnne Keating, Ward I; Eileen Kearney, Ward II; Richard Gallup, Ward III; and Larry Eldeen, Ward IV. Each of these seats carries a four-year term. Nominating petitions can be obtained at the Redfield City Hall Finance Office beginning January 29, 2010 and are due for filing by the 26th of February.

In Mellette candidates are sought for a Ward I Council person, a Ward II Council person, and a Ward III Council person in addition to the opening for a Mayor. Each of these positions is a two-year term. Those interested may pickup a nominating petition from the Mellette City Finance Officer and must be filed with the same by February 26. Deadline for voter registration is March 29, 2010.

Tulare is looking to fill the elective office of Trustee for a three-year term. Nominating petitions may begin circulation on January 29 and are due to be filed by the 26th of February.

The City of Northville has one Trustee position open for a three-year term. Interested parties may pick up a nominating petition, which must be filed by February 26 at 5pm.

Those interested in running for a three-year term as a Trustee can pick up the nominating petition for circulation from City Finance Officer Linda Torrence beginning January 29. The filing deadline is February 26, 2010.

In Ashton there is one Trustee seat open for a three-year term. Those interested need to pick up a Nominating Petition from City Finance Officer Carol Groft at the City Office between the hours of 9am and 11am. These need to be filed by February 26.

On the County level, the terms of Auditor, Register of Deeds and Sheriff are all up for election as well as County Commissioner Jeff Albrecht for District 1, County Commissioner Craig Johnson for District 3, and County Commissioner Dave Albrecht for District 5. Interested parties must contact the Spink County Auditor’s office for more information.