Qualifying for Vacant Mayor Seat Under Way

Today marks the start once again of the mayor’s race in Hiram.

In the wake of earlier this month, the city of Hiram will hold on March 6 a special election to fill Paris’ former position.

Qualifying for the mayor’s race will be held at Hiram City Hall Monday and Tuesday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; and Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. until noon. Any Hiram resident who has resided in the city for 12 months prior as of election day, is at least 21 years old and a qualified voter, is eligible to run for mayor. Those seeking office will have to pay a $270 qualifying fee and complete four forms—notice of candidacy and affidavit, declaration of intent to accept campaign contributions, financial disclosure and proof of residency.

The March 6 special election day is the same day as the presidential preference primary, but the elections will be separate. Those wishing to cast ballots for mayor will go to the Hiram Community Center—also the site of early voting Feb. 27-March 2—but those wanting to make a selection in the presidential race will have to travel to their assigned county polling place. Hiram residents have until Feb. 6 to register to vote in time for the March 6 elections.

Those with questions regarding qualifying or elections may contact the Paulding County Board of Elections at 770-443-7503, or the Hiram City Clerk Cynthia Geyer at 770-943-3726, extension 203.

City residents have seen two mayors step down in just over six months. Carmen Rollins , citing “personnel issues” and conflicts of interests as reasons behind her departure. Paris, then the city’s mayor pro tem, took over for Rollins July 1 and by a vote of the council.

After serving the remainder of Rollins’ unexpired term and , Jan. 3 was the first—and last—meeting of Paris’ term as mayor without the interim in front of the title. Councilman Derrick Battle, the mayor pro tem, has presided over the council in subsequent meetings.

Visit Dallas-Hiram Patch this week for further updates on Hiram's mayoral race.