The May 3 Election Joh Covington Thu, 04/17/2025 - 06:15 Subheader body An Opportunity to Vote for Local Changes Body Following a high-turnout presidential election year, Pecos County officials are urging residents to participate in the upcoming local elections, which will shape the future of key government entities in the region. Last year, a total of 4,278 votes were cast in Pecos County during the presidential election, including early, Election Day, and absentee ballots. Now, Election Administrator Sophia Franco is emphasizing the importance of local elections, which will impact city governments, school districts, and hospital boards. Local elections are critical to our communities. Franco said, “I would like to encourage all voters to get out and vote, as this upcoming election is important to our local government.” The May elections will include races for three entities in Iraan—the City of Iraan, Iraan General Hospital, and the Iraan/Sheffield Collegiate Independent School District—as well as three in Fort Stockton: the City of Fort Stockton, the Pecos County Memorial Hospital District, and the Fort Stockton Independent School District. Franco stressed that every vote matters, regardless of the outcome. “Voting affects you, the voter, and if you turn out to vote, you have exercised your power in being a decisive factor in an election. Voting may have a favorable result in a voter’s eyes, or it may not,” she said, “What’s most important is that you’ve done your part by exercising your right to vote.” Her office oversees election logistics for contracted political subdivisions, handling tasks such as state-mandated postings, mail-in ballot procedures, precinct-specific ballot configurations, poll worker training, and equipment preparation. Additionally, Franco serves as the liaison between local entities and ES&S, the county’s election software provider. By managing these details, we ensure a smooth and accurate election process. “There are many responsibilities I take off their shoulders to make it a smoother election for the entity,” Franco said. Her office’s goal is to make voting as accessible and efficient as possible for all residents. Early voting dates and polling locations will be announced in the coming weeks. Registered voters are encouraged to verify their eligibility and stay informed about key deadlines. For more information, visit the Pecos County website co.pecos.tx.us/ election-information/ to access sample ballots and other election information. News