Early Voting for November Elections Underway in Jefferson County

Early voting for the upcoming elections in Jefferson County is currently in progress, allowing residents to cast their ballots ahead of Election Day on November 4, 2024. This early voting period runs through October 31, with reports indicating that as of October 26, a total of 2,679 voters have already participated, including 401 mail-in ballots.

Local Ballot Highlights

The ballots feature several key propositions that could have significant local implications. In the City of Port Arthur, voters will consider Proposition A, which seeks to authorize the City of Port Arthur Economic Development Corporation to utilize sales and use tax revenues for various projects. These projects encompass recreational facilities, affordable housing, water supply initiatives, and the support of new business enterprises that create or retain primary jobs. This measure would enable the Economic Development Corporation, classified as a Type A organization, to undertake Type B projects.

Another critical item on the ballot is Proposition A from the Port of Port Arthur Navigation District. This proposition involves the issuance of bonds totaling $92 million for infrastructure improvements, such as wharves, docks, and other terminal facilities. To finance these bonds, a tax increase of approximately 5.5 cents per $100 of taxable property value is proposed. For instance, a home valued at $100,000 could see an increase of about $4.58 per month, translating to around $55 annually.

In Port Neches, the general election features several council positions, including Councilmember Place 1, where candidates Heather R. Burton and Mike Beaty are vying for votes. Councilmember Place 2 is contested by Adam Anders, who currently has no opponent. Additionally, the Port Neches-Groves Independent School District has multiple trustee positions up for election, with candidates including Sarah Hardin, Joshua Gray, and Misty Goodridge for Trustee Place 4, while Brandon Cropper is running unopposed for Trustee Place 5.

A special election for the Port Neches-Groves Independent School District will also take place, concerning the issuance of bonds not to exceed $75 million. These funds are earmarked for various purposes, including designing and upgrading school facilities and purchasing new school buses. Notably, the district’s current financial structure allows for these additional bonds without raising the tax rate, according to district officials.

Early Voting Details

Early voting is available through October 31, with extended hours during the second week. Polling stations will operate from 07:00 to 19:00 on October 25, from 12:00 to 18:00 on October 26, and again from 07:00 to 19:00 from October 27 to 31. Voting locations include the Groves Activity Building, Marion & Ed Hughes Public Library, Hebert Public Library, and the Port Arthur Public Library, among others.

Voters across Jefferson County can visit any early voting site, regardless of their designated precinct. A valid photo ID is required to participate in the voting process. For more details on polling locations, sample ballots, and other election information, residents can access the Jefferson County Elections website at [jeffersonelections.com](https://www.jeffersonelections.com/) or [votetexas.gov](https://www.votetexas.gov).

As the early voting period progresses, community engagement remains crucial, with local propositions poised to shape the future of Jefferson County.