Early voting for the upcoming elections on November 4, 2023, is in full swing in the Port Arthur area, running through October 31, 2023. As of Thursday, 2,679 voters have participated, including 401 mail-in ballots. Voters can access a variety of propositions and candidates on their local ballots, reflecting significant community issues and developments.
Ballot Propositions in Port Arthur
In the City of Port Arthur, voters will consider **Proposition A**, which aims to authorize the City of Port Arthur Economic Development Corporation to utilize the sales and use tax as outlined under Chapter 504 of the Texas Local Government Code. This measure would expand the scope of projects the Corporation can undertake, including recreational facilities, affordable housing, and water conservation initiatives. Importantly, it enables the Economic Development Corporation, classified as a Type A organization, to manage Type B projects as well.
Additionally, the Port of Port Arthur Navigation District is presenting **Proposition A**, which seeks approval for the issuance of bonds totaling $92 million. These funds will be directed towards the development of essential port infrastructure, including wharves and docks, alongside necessary land acquisitions. This proposal includes a tax increase of approximately 5.5 cents per $100 of taxable property value. For instance, a home valued at $100,000 after exemptions would incur an additional cost of around $4.58 monthly or approximately $55 annually.
Local Elections in Port Neches
In Port Neches, the general election features several councilmember positions. Candidates for Councilmember Place 1 include **Heather R. Burton** and **Mike Beaty**, while **Adam Anders** runs unopposed for Councilmember Place 2. The Port Neches-Groves Independent School District also has key positions up for election, including Trustee Place 4, where candidates **Sarah Hardin**, **Joshua Gray**, and **Misty Goodridge** are competing. Trustee Place 5 sees **Brandon Cropper** running unopposed.
A special election is being held regarding the issuance of bonds not to exceed $75 million for various school building projects. This funding will support the design, renovation, and equipping of educational facilities, as well as the purchase of new school buses. The district’s current debt structure allows for this bond issuance without increasing the tax rate, according to district information.
Early voting locations are accessible throughout Jefferson County, with voters permitted to cast their ballots at any site, irrespective of precinct. Locations include the Groves Activity Building, Marion & Ed Hughes Public Library, and several community centers in Beaumont. Extended voting hours are available during the second week. Polling times are set as follows: from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on October 25, noon to 6 p.m. on October 26, and returning to 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. from October 27 to 31.
To participate, voters must present a valid photo ID. For additional details on voting locations, sample ballots, and other election-related information, residents are encouraged to visit the Jefferson County Elections website at jeffersonelections.com or votetexas.gov.
As the election date approaches, community engagement and informed voting remain crucial for residents in making impactful decisions that will shape their local future.
