The Snowmass Town Clerk has received nearly 500 ballots so far in a recall election of a town council member. It’s the first time ever the town has held such an election.
The turnout so far isn’t unexpected. Town officials thought between 600 and 800 ballots would be returned. By election day Tuesday, the votes may total that. In a typical election for town council, about 900 people vote. But, this election isn’t typical. A citizen led effort got the recall question on the ballot after councilman Chris Jacobson was arrested and jailed for drunk driving. Organizers of the petition said Jacobson’s actions were “unworthy of a town council member.”
The clerk blames the low turnout so far on the off-season and people failing to update their addresses. The Town expects to spend $5000 on the election. People can drop off ballots or get replacement ballots Monday and Tuesday at Town Hall. Town Hall will be open from 7am until 7pm on election day (10/13).
If Jacobson is recalled, citizens will choose a replacement. Richard Goodwin, James Knowlton and Thomas Goode are all running to replace Jacobson.