Run-off Today in Hart County for Chief Magistrate Seat
Polls are open today in Hart County for voters to decide which of two run-off candidates will become the new Hart County Chief Magistrate Judge.
Seven candidates originally vied for the seat on March 19th which was left vacant when former Magistrate Judge Tony Wellborn died suddenly last fall.
After the votes were counted, local attorney Todd C. Townsend and local businessman Thomas J. Jordan came out on top.
Townsend received 880 votes or 24.31% of the vote, while Jordan received 815 votes or 22.51%.
After the election in March, both expressed surprise at receiving the top number of votes.
Townsend cites his 20 years experience on the municipal court bench in Hartwell as the main qualification for the position of Chief Magistrate in Hart County and if elected, said he would give fast access to law enforcement to search and arrest warrants.
Townsend said another goal is to make Hart County a safer place for families.
On his Facebook page, Jordan said if elected, he will bring a common sense approach to the job.
Jordan said if elected, he would treat everyone fairly and with respect.
Early voting for the run off ended last Friday at 5p.
According to the Hart County Registrar’s office, 1,148 people opted to vote early.
To qualify as a magistrate in Georgia, an individual must have resided in the county for at least one year preceding his or her term of office, be twenty-five years of age, and have a high school diploma.
Other qualifications may be imposed by local legislation. There are 159 chief magistrates and 346 magistrates in Georgia.
Polls close at 7p this evening and 92.1 WLHR will have the results as soon as they become available.