Mayor to seek re-election

Vermillion Mayor Dan Christopherson has announced that he is a candidate for re-election on June 6. He is completing his first two-year term as mayor after serving one term as central ward alderman.

"I believe that we should all take our turn at public service, but not make a career of it," Christopherson said. "I would like to complete the city hall project and follow through with the many activities, projects and events being planned for the city's 150th sesquicentennial in 2009.

"I will continue my policy of open government, always asking for and receiving public input before making decisions," he continued. "The citizens are the only reason we have government, and the wishes of the people will always be my top priority."

Beginning this year, Vermillion elected officials will serve staggered four-year terms. There will be five open seats out of the nine currently serving, including the mayor and one alderman in each of the four wards in the city. Petitions can begin being circulated on March 1, and must be filed with the finance officer by April 4.

The city of Vermillion began holding combined elections with Clay County, Vermillion School District and state and national primaries on the first Tuesday in June two years ago. Combined elections save money and encourage better voter participation.