SPECIAL TO THE SIGNAL

The Lowndes County Democratic Executive Committee met Tuesday night at the office of the Lowndes County Commission to set local qualifying dates and fees for the Democratic primary election to be held March 13, 2012.

Chairman Eli Seaborn stressed that the date is earlier than usual and is also the date for the presidential primary.

The qualifying period opens Monday, Dec. 5 and will close at 5 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 13, 2012.

The qualifying fee represents 2 percent of the annual salary for the position. The fee for Lowndes County Commission, Districts Two, Three and Five is $425.02. For the office of Lowndes County probate judge, the fee is $1,528.38.

In addition to the fees, a candidate must complete documents for the Alabama Democratic Party, Alabama Ethics Commission, Alabama Secretary of State, and the Internal Revenue Service.

The documents may be obtained from Seaborn. Seaborn will receive the appropriate documents and fees at his home, 318 County Road 40 West, White Hall. His office hours will be Monday-Friday from 1-5 p.m.

Candidates for the county judicial position of circuit judge, district judge and circuit clerk must qualify with the Alabama Democratic Party at the headquarters located at 501 Adams Ave. in Montgomery.

The offices of Unites States president, Public Service Commission president and chief justice are also up for election. In addition, all seven U.S. House seats, four state Supreme Court seats, three Court of Civil Appeals seats, three Court of Criminal Appeals seats and odd-numbered state Board of Education seats will be elected.

The general election will be held on Nov. 6, 2012.

Uralee A. Haynes serves as the Committee’s secretary. Other Committee members are: Joey Barganier, Patricia Davis, Dickson Farrior, Steve Foster, Debra Harris, Sam Howard, Kelly G. Lambert, Loretta Moss, LaShundra Myrick, Yvette Patterson, Ida B. Poole, Diane Stuckey, Jimmie Stringer and Gwen Thicklin.