Early voting for the upcoming elections in Jefferson County is currently underway, allowing residents to cast their ballots ahead of the official Election Day on November 4, 2024. As of October 26, 2024, a total of 2,679 individuals have participated in early voting, including 401 mail-in ballots. The early voting period will conclude on October 31, 2024.
Key Local Ballot Measures
Voters in Port Arthur will encounter several significant propositions on their ballots. One critical measure is Proposition A, which seeks to grant the City of Port Arthur Economic Development Corporation (EDC) the authority to utilize the sales and use tax under Chapter 504 of the Texas Local Government Code. This proposition aims to support various projects, including recreational facilities, affordable housing, and initiatives to create or retain primary jobs. If approved, this would enable the EDC, classified as a Type A organization, to engage in Type B projects, broadening its operational scope.
Another important item is Proposition A from the Port of Port Arthur Navigation District. This proposal involves issuing bonds amounting to $92 million for improvements to wharves, docks, and other necessary facilities that enhance port operations. This bond issuance would come with a tax increase of approximately 5.5 cents per $100 of taxable property value. For instance, homeowners with properties valued at $100,000 would see an increase of about $4.58 per month, translating to around $55 annually.
Port Neches Elections and School District Measures
In Port Neches, residents will vote in a general election featuring several council positions. Candidates for Councilmember Place 1 include Heather R. Burton and Mike Beaty, while Adam Anders runs unopposed for Councilmember Place 2. The Port Neches-Groves Independent School District also has important measures on the ballot, including Trustee Place 4 candidates Sarah Hardin, Joshua Gray, and Misty Goodridge. For Trustee Place 5, Brandon Cropper is running unopposed.
Additionally, the school district proposes issuing bonds not to exceed $75 million for the purpose of enhancing school facilities and purchasing new buses. According to district information, the current debt structure allows for the issuance of these bonds without raising the tax rate.
Early voting continues through October 31, 2024, with specific hours set for the final days. Voters can cast their ballots from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on October 25, from noon to 6 p.m. on October 26, and again from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. from October 27 to 31.
Several early voting locations are available across Jefferson County, including:
– Groves Activity Building, 6150 39th St., Groves
– Marion & Ed Hughes Public Library, 2712 Nederland Ave., Nederland
– Hebert Public Library, 2025 Merriman St., Port Neches
– Port Arthur Public Library, 4615 9th Ave., Port Arthur
– Jefferson County Sub-Courthouse, 525 Lakeshore Dr., Port Arthur
Voters can choose any early voting site within Jefferson County, regardless of their precinct. A valid photo ID is required to participate in the voting process.
For additional information regarding polling locations, sample ballots, and election details, residents are encouraged to visit the official Jefferson County elections website at [jeffersonelections.com](https://www.jeffersonelections.com/) or [votetexas.gov](https://www.votetexas.gov/).
