Voters stood in line for most of the day to vote at the Gap Civil precinct (in the Emerson Black Exhibition Building in Sparta).

Local Democrats regain control of school board

The local Democratic Party recaptured a majority on the board of education and held its ground on the county commission Tuesday with about 76 percent of Alleghany County’s 6,514 registered voters turning out at the polls. That number includes about 2,000 people who participated in early voting this year, either by absentee or no excuse (One Stop ) voting at the local board of elections.

The turnout, which amounted to 4,931 ballots or 75.8 percent of the vote, was easily a record for the county, said local election officials. The last presidential election in 2000 had a turnout of about 61 percent, a figure that was then considered a near-record turnout. “Voter interest was as high this year as I have ever seen it,” said Director of Elections Karen K. Fender. “The volume at the polls was heavy all day long.”

Board of Elections member Tom Smith said the poll workers deserve praise for their efforts.

“The precinct workers carried the day and did a wonderful job,” Smith said. “Even though the turnout was unusually high, we had very few problems.” He noted that voters remained patient, even though many had to wait several minutes for their opportunity to vote.

“We really appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding,” he said. “We are really proud of the number of local people who turned out today.”

All results are unofficial until votes can be canvassed, including checking through provisional ballots.

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