By By Ben Alexander/The Meridian Star
April 25, 2001
After finally being certified as a candidate for the Meridian City Council in Ward 5, Todd Vallot says he's ready to hit the campaign trail.
As an Independent, Vallot had to acquire 50 signatures from registered voters in order to be certified as a candidate. Although Vallot got well over 50 signatures, there was some question about whether all the signatures were valid. After several weeks, he was allowed to get affidavits from individuals to verify their signatures.
If elected, Vallot says he would like to create more jobs in Meridian by marketing the city's strengths in transportation to lure larger industries here.
Vallot, a manager at O'Charley's Restaurant, said he decided to run for a city council seat because he wants to make the city a better place to live for his three children.
Another issue that Vallot says he intends to investigate if elected is what he describes as a "drug problem" among the city's youth.
Vallot will face incumbent Ward 5 Councilman Bobby Smith in the June 5 general election.
Ben Alexander is a staff writer for The Meridian Star. Call him at 693-1551, ext. 3226, or e-mail him at balexander@themeridianstar.com.