Local Political Season Underway in Mauldin, Simpsonville

The local election season has begun in Mauldin and Simpsonville.

The period for candidates to file to run for City Council in both cities began this week and will run through noon on Aug. 15.

At-large seats up for grabs in Mauldin include those currently held by Council members Dale Black, Gabe Hunter, and Patricia Gettys.

In Simpsonville, seats are based on geographic wards. In contention this year are wards 2,4, and 6, currently held by Council members Brown Garrett, Dr. Julius Welborn, and Sylvia Lockaby, respectively.

The Simpsonville Council races could shape up to be the most interesting. A number of people upset at the firing of former Police Chief Keith Grounsell have indicated they plan to run, with Brown Garrett being a prime target. 

Welborn also voted to fire Grounsell, but he recently said publicly he now regrets his decision to do so. His public declaration garnered praise from pro-Grounsell forces, but it may not likely save him from being contested. Grounsell ally Lockaby voted unsuccessfully to retain the former chief.

The general election will be held Nov. 5, with a Nov. 19 runoff election scheduled if necessary. 

Want to run? You'll need to file at City Hall and pay a filing fee — $100 in Mauldin, and $300 in Simpsonville.