On May 22 a special election will be held in Poplarville to elect a new member to the Board of Aldermen. Two candidates, David Glenn Bolin and Russell Miller have qualified for the election.

Bolin is a local business owner and the sitting President of the Poplarville Chamber of Commerce. Bolin previously served on the Board of Aldermen, and has decided to run for the position again. According to previous coverage, Bolin became a member of the Board in September of 2014. Initial results of the election left Bolin and his opponent Stephanie Bounds, tied with 177 votes each. In response, commissioners decided to have the candidates draw straws to break the tie. Bolin pulled the longer straw for the win.

Bolin said while he does not have a particular agenda if elected, it is his goal to get back onto the Board and see how he can help. He said the Board needs someone with experience, like himself – someone who does not need to study the rules and procedures before taking office. While Bolin said he leans more toward conservatism, he is not declaring a political party.

Russell Miller has also qualified and will be running for the open seat. Miller is currently the owner of Miller Auto Sales, the general manager and partial owner of Poplarville’s Sonic and is a part-time patrol officer for the Poplarville Police Department. He has served in law enforcement since 2004.

Miller said Poplarville is a great place to live and a wonderful place to raise a family, but he believes that the city should continue moving forward. Miller said he would also like to do his part to ensure local businesses flourish. He said he would like to bring the Board together so the city can continue moving in the right direction.

Miller said he is not a part of one platform in particular, but rather would like to be a voice for everyone in the city, despite their background or beliefs. He said he believes everyone has the right to be heard.

“We need some people who are willing to do the work and be the voice of everyone,” Miller said.

Miller said he would be happy to speak with anyone who has questions or concerns. He can be reached on his cellphone at 601-916-2400.

The special election is being held to fill a vacancy left by former Alderwoman Margaret Ann Smith after her resignation in April.

Poplarville City Clerk Jane O’Neal said absentee voting can be completed Saturday May 12 and Saturday May 19 from 8 a.m. to noon.

The official election will be held Tuesday, May 22 at City Hall from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.