We’re ten days away from the spring general election where St. Martinville voters will decide who will spend the next four years as the city’s mayor.
Mayor Thomas Nelson will be seeking his fourth term as mayor during the April 28th runoff.
He says his accomplishments such as building the veterans memorial and getting a one-cent sales tax to build a community center prove that he’s the best person for the job.
"I can be proud to say our books are in order and we have no problem with auditors," said Nelson.
Nelson adds that his twelve years in office give him other advantages.
"If you have a good working relationship with your council, your authority. If you have not, you don’t have too much authority," said Nelson.
Nelson’s opponent Melinda Mitchell says the city needs fresh leadership.
"We appreciate all that the incumbent has done in the last twelve years, but it is time for a new vision and a new direction in St. Martinville," said Mitchell.
Mitchell, a veteran of state government, says she wants to foster small businesses in the city and improve infrastructure.
And, while she finished twelve percentage points behind Nelson in the primary, she’s hoping to win over voters before election day.
"I’m very excited with early voting, we’re getting positive feedback. People are running to the polls wanting to vote for me and just for change for the best for the community," said Mitchell.
Early voting for the April 28th general election continues through Saturday. In addition to the mayor’s race, some St. Martinville residents will elect a new council member.
