Early voting for the upcoming elections on November 4, 2023, is currently underway in the Port Arthur area, continuing through October 31, 2023. As of Thursday, 2,679 voters have participated, including 401 mail-in ballots. This voting period allows residents to cast their ballots ahead of Election Day, offering greater flexibility for voters.
Local Ballot Measures
The local ballot features significant propositions for voters in the area. One of the key items is Proposition A for the City of Port Arthur, which seeks to authorize the City of Port Arthur Economic Development Corporation to utilize the sales and use tax under Chapter 504 of the Texas Local Government Code. This funding would support various projects, including recreational facilities, affordable housing, water conservation programs, and the maintenance of sports venues. The proposal allows the Economic Development Corporation, classified as a Type A organization, to undertake Type B projects.
Another critical measure on the ballot is Proposition A from the Port of Port Arthur Navigation District. This initiative proposes the issuance of bonds totaling $92 million aimed at enhancing wharves, docks, and other necessary infrastructure for port operations. The plan includes a projected tax increase of approximately 5.5 cents per $100 of taxable property value. For homeowners, this means an estimated increase of about $4.58 per month, or around $55 annually, based on a property valued at $100,000 after exemptions.
General Election Details
Voters in the City of Port Neches will also participate in a general election featuring candidates for council positions. For Councilmember Place 1, Heather R. Burton and Mike Beaty are vying for the seat, while Adam Anders runs unopposed for Councilmember Place 2. Additionally, the Port Neches-Groves Independent School District has contested trustee positions, with Sarah Hardin, Joshua Gray, and Misty Goodridge competing for Trustee Place 4, and Brandon Cropper running unopposed for Trustee Place 5.
A special election is also on the agenda for the Port Neches-Groves Independent School District. This measure involves the issuance of bonds not to exceed $75 million for various school facility improvements and the purchase of new school buses. According to district officials, the current debt structure allows for this additional bond issuance without raising the existing tax rate.
Early voting locations are available across Jefferson County, and polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. from October 27 to 31, with extended hours on October 25 and October 26. Voters can cast their ballots at the Groves Activity Building, Marion & Ed Hughes Public Library, Hebert Public Library, and several other sites throughout the area. A valid photo ID is required to vote.
For more information, residents can visit jeffersonelections.com or votetexas.gov to access sample ballots and specific voting location details.
