Candidates file for election this year
Local government plays a vital role in shaping the lives of residents, and an essential aspect of democracy is the opportunity for citizens to participate in the decision-making process. If you have ever considered making a difference in your community and being part of the change you wish to see, now is the time to act. The upcoming elections in Hartsville, Lamar, Society Hill, and Darlington present an excellent chance for aspiring leaders to step up and run for office.
In the Town of Lamar and Society Hill, there are two Council seats up for grabs. If you believe you have what it takes to contribute to the progress of your town, it’s time to take the first step and file as a candidate. Head to the Darlington County Board of Elections and Registration Office located at 131 Cashua St., Darlington, to officially declare your candidacy. The filing fee for the Town of Lamar is $78, while for Society Hill, it’s $48. This fee is a small investment in your community’s future and goes towards supporting the electoral process.
In the City of Darlington, there is an even broader range of opportunities to serve. Three Council seats at-large are available, as well as the prestigious role of Mayor. If you believe in your leadership abilities and have a vision for Darlington’s growth and prosperity, don’t hesitate to file at Darlington City Hall, 400 Pearl St., Darlington. The filing fee for the Mayor’s seat is $362.64, and for the Council seats, it’s $213.32. While these fees may vary, they reflect the responsibilities and potential impact that each position holds.
Election Day is on Tuesday, Nov. 7, and polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The day when the community comes together to make their voices heard and elect their representatives is the culmination of the democratic process. Be a part of this essential event and contribute to shaping your town or city’s future.
As of presstime, there were only 5 candidates who had actually filed the necessary papers to run for office. They are:
Curtis Boyd, who is running for re-election as Mayor of Darlington.
John Milling, who is running for re-election to Darlington City Council.
Craig Weber, who is running for Hartsville City Council Seat #6, which is now held by Councilman Bobby McGee.
Bryson Caldwell, who is running for re-election to Hartsville City Council Seat #2.
Kevin Long, who is running for Society Hill Town Council.
Of course, before you can cast your name on the ballot or vote for your favorite candidate, you must be a registered voter. Make sure to register by October 7, 2023, to be eligible to participate in the upcoming elections. For information on voter registration or Photo ID requirements, visit the website scvotes.org or contact the County Board of Voter Registration and Elections at 843-398-4900.
If you’re considering running for office but aren’t sure where to start, don’t worry. The website SCVotes.org offers valuable resources and information for potential candidates. There, you can find details on the requirements and qualifications for various offices, as well as guidelines for campaign financing and other essential aspects of running a successful campaign.