Early voting for the upcoming elections in Jefferson County is currently underway and will continue until October 31. As of the latest update on Thursday, a total of **2,679** voters have participated, which includes **401** mail-in ballots. These elections, scheduled for **November 4**, include a constitutional amendment and various local propositions that impact communities across the region.
Key Propositions on the Ballot
One significant measure is **Proposition A** from the City of Port Arthur. This proposition would authorize the Port Arthur Economic Development Corporation to utilize sales and use tax revenues for specific projects. These projects are outlined under Chapter 505 of the Texas Local Government Code and include recreational facilities, affordable housing, water supply infrastructure, and initiatives to support new business enterprises. The proposed measure would enable the Economic Development Corporation, classified as a Type A organization, to take on Type B projects, expanding its capabilities to enhance local development.
Another important item on the ballot is the **Port of Port Arthur Navigation District’s Proposition A**, which seeks to issue bonds totaling **$92 million** for infrastructure improvements. These funds are earmarked for the development of wharves, docks, and other terminal facilities, as well as necessary land acquisitions. Should this proposition pass, it would result in a tax increase of approximately **5.5 cents** per **$100** of taxable property value. For example, homeowners with properties valued at **$100,000** could expect an increase of about **$4.58** monthly, or roughly **$55** annually.
Local Elections in Port Neches
The City of Port Neches is also holding elections with contested positions for council members. For **Councilmember Place 1**, candidates include **Heather R. Burton** and **Mike Beaty**, while **Adam Anders** runs unopposed for **Councilmember Place 2**. Additionally, the Port Neches-Groves Independent School District has notable races, including Trustee Place 4, where **Sarah Hardin**, **Joshua Gray**, and **Misty Goodridge** are vying for votes. For Trustee Place 5, **Brandon Cropper** is running unopposed.
A special election in the Port Neches-Groves Independent School District will also decide on the issuance of bonds up to **$75 million** for the renovation and upgrading of school facilities, as well as the acquisition of new school buses. The district has indicated that the current structure of its debt allows for these bonds to be issued without necessitating an increase in the tax rate.
Voters can participate in early voting at various locations throughout Jefferson County. Polling hours are from **7 a.m. to 7 p.m.** on select days, including **October 25** and **October 27-31**, with adjusted hours on **October 26** from **noon to 6 p.m.** Early voting sites include:
– Groves Activity Building, 6150 39th St., Groves
– Marion & Ed Hughes Public Library, 2712 Nederland Ave., Nederland
– Hebert Public Library, 2025 Merriman St., Port Neches
– Port Arthur Public Library, 4615 9th Ave., Port Arthur
Jefferson County residents can vote at any early voting site, regardless of their precinct. A valid photo ID is required to cast a ballot.
For more information on early voting locations, sample ballots, and additional election details, residents can visit **https://www.jeffersonelections.com/** or **votetexas.gov**. As the countdown to **November 4** continues, local officials encourage all eligible voters to make their voices heard.
