Only one seeking signatures for Cape Ward 6 seat

Petitions awaiting the signatures of at least 50 registered voters in Cape Girardeau's Ward 6 -- which will determine who is on the ballot in an upcoming election for city council -- haven't been in high demand since becoming available Wednesday.

As of 3 p.m. Monday, only Wayne Bowen, chairman of the history department at Southeast Missouri State University, had picked up a petition.

Bowen, also a Southeast Missourian columnist, called the Southeast Missourian on Monday to formally announce his intention to run for council. He said he expects to have the full number of signatures by the end of the week.

A special election to replace Ward 6 Councilwoman Kathy Swan will be in April or August, depending on the number of candidates who file. A two-person contest would place the election April 2. If more than two people file, April's contest will serve as a primary, with the two candidates with the most votes running in an August election. Swan plans to resign at the end of the month so she can take the 147th District seat in the Missouri House of Representatives. The city council will appoint someone to fill Swan's seat until the election.

City clerk Gayle Conrad said Monday petitions may be picked up in the city clerk's office until 5 p.m. Dec. 18, which is the first day candidates can file.

Pertinent address:

401 Independence St., Cape Girardeau, MO