By By Ben Alexander/The Meridian Star
June 4, 2001
Four candidates will be seeking the office of mayor of Meridian Tuesday as voters go to the polls the municipal election.
Voters will choose between Republican incumbent John Robert Smith, Independent Bill McBride, Independent Charlie Haynes and Democrat William Hugh Johnson.
Meridian City Clerk Ed Skipper said only one voting precinct has changed from the last time citizens cast ballots. Instead of voting at the site of the Senior Citizens' Center, voters in precinct 5A will be traveling to the Central Fire Station at 2500 14th St.
In the Meridian City Council race, Ward 1 incumbent Dr. George Thomas, a Republican, is running unopposed, as is Ward 2 incumbent Mary Perry, a Democrat.
Ward 3 Councilman Barbara Henson, a Republican, is facing former Meridian firefighter Lee Fryery, an Independent.
Ward 4 Councilman Jesse E. Palmer Sr., a Democrat, is facing Independent candidate John Nelson Jr., who also ran against Palmer four years ago, but was narrowly defeated.
Ward 5 Councilman Bobby Smith, a Republican, is facing political newcomer Todd Vallot, an Independent.
Skipper says voters with questions should call his office at 485-1945 or 485-1946. Polls open Tuesday at 7 a.m. and will close at 7 p.m.
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.