Published: November 07, 2007 12:48 am      

Union Valley decides to become a city

Voting in Union Valley was especially heavy Tuesday as residents decided their fate — to be a city or not.

“It’s been a pretty good turnout, much better than what we usually have for a mid-term election,” said Election Judge Robert Hernandez. When the day was done, voters had approved incorporating as a town by a 75-15 count.

At 9:30 a.m., 33 votes had been cast, two hours later the number had doubled to 66.

When polls closed at 7 p.m. over half — 90 — of the 173 eligible voters had cast a vote.

Most of the voters said the municipality question played no role in their decision to vote, but many added it was in the back of their minds.

“I always vote, no matter what,” said voter Eunice Morrow. “But it is a big decision and I’m glad so many are voting.”

“I would’ve voted anyway, but this makes it even more important,” said Lina Chase.

With incorporation, voters also chose their first town council. Jay Atkins was selected mayor after receiving 42 votes, Daniel W. Council is Commissioner No.1 with 26 votes and J. A. Francis is Commissioner No. 2 with 24 votes.