Few turn out for city elections

City voters won't be overwhelmed with choices this fall.

As the filing deadline for Palmer, Wasilla and Houston elections closed Friday, it was already clear that incumbents will dominate. In Wasilla, Councilman and Deputy Mayor Howard O'Neil will go unchallenged for Seat A, as will Councilwoman Diana Straub, who occupies Seat B.

The same holds true in Houston, where city council incumbents Angela Rosas, Seat C, and Johnnie Winder, Seat D, won't have any competition at the polls.

Palmer also has two seats coming open on its council. Unlike Wasilla and Houston, however, these are at-large seats in which the top two vote-getters will earn their way onto the council.

Incumbent John Combs will try to retain his seat on the council this fall, but he will be met at the polls by some challengers. Ken Erbey and Emil Butch Fondahn also filed their nominating petitions in time for the Aug. 1 deadline.

Palmer Councilman Brian Fish, who was appointed to the council in January to replace Diana Long, has chosen not to run for election.

The Frontiersman will publish profiles and question and answers from the candidates in an upcoming edition.

City voters can also watch for ballot initiatives this fall. Palmer will be asking its residents to consider a $1.5 million bond to help pay for the construction of an ice arena, with any remaining funds going toward other parks and recreation capital improvements. In Houston, voters will give their thumbs up or down to a 2-percent sales tax. A similar proposal appeared on Houston's ballot several years ago and voters rejected it.

Houston, Wasilla and Palmer elections will be Oct. 7. To be eligible to cast a ballot, voters must register at least 30 days prior to the election. Voter registration forms are available at most city halls and the state Division of Elections Web site at www.gov.state.ak.us/ltgov/elections/homepage.

Election volunteers are still needed in many areas. Contact your local city clerk for more information.