INCUMBENTS, CHALLENGERS FILE FOR JACKSON BOARDS

JACKSON -- The filing deadline for local public office was 5 p.m. Tuesday, and there will be plenty of competition for seats on the Jackson Board of Education and Jackson Board of Aldermen.

Five incumbents and three challengers filed for seats on the Jackson Board of Aldermen. Last year nobody challenged four aldermen, the mayor or the city collector.

In Ward 1, David Ludwig, a Jackson alderman for 14 years, will face Donna Langford. Langford, who hasn't run for public office before, said, if elected, she would stay in office no longer than six years. Ludwig said he wants to continue giving attention to various projects in his growing city.

In Ward 2, incumbents Kerry Hoffman and Dave Reiminger are running unopposed. Hoffman will complete a one-year term and Reiminger a new two-year term.

In Ward 3, challenger Larry Cunningham faces longtime Alderman Glenn Oldham, who has served on the board 11 years. Cunningham is co-owner of Cunningham Bros. Appraisal Service in Jackson.

In Ward 4, challenger John Powers faces incumbent Fred Leimer. Powers moved to Jackson two years ago and said he believes current aldermen have deceived the people on various issues. Leimer is a lifelong resident of Cape Girardeau County and was elected to the board in 1994.

Three incumbents and two challengers filed for three two-year terms on the Jackson Board of Education.

Board members Vicky McDowell, Dr. T. Wayne Lewis and Darrell Hanschen will face retired businessman Ron Lowes and lawyer Tom Ludwig.