La Grande mayor seeks second term

City Recorder Sandy Lund said Tuesday that Mayor Daniel Pokorney has been approved to circulate his petition. Councilor John Bozarth has picked up his candidate's packet, but has not been approved to circulate yet. Lund said Councilor Kelly McGee has verbally indicated an intention to run for re-election, but has not yet obtained paperwork.

Silas Kelty is the fourth member of the council up for election. This morning, Kelty said he doesn't yet know if he will run for a second term.

"My wife and I are talking it over so we can make the best decision for our family. We'll have a decision soon," he said.

The primary election for nominating candidates is slated for May 15, provided three or more candidates file for a particular position. If two or fewer file for a position, their names will be placed only on the Nov. 6 general election ballot.

Nomination for city council positions is by petition. People wanting to run for office must complete paperwork, then circulate their petitions. The petitions must be signed by at least 20 registered voters who reside in the city of La Grande. 

Candidate packets are available from Lund at City Hall, 1000 Adams Ave. Completed petitions must be filed with Lund no later than Feb. 28. For more information, contact Lund at 541-962-1309.

Pokorney was elected to his first term as mayor in November 2010. Previously he served as a city councilor. He said today he hasn't finished gathering his petition signatures, but expects to soon. 

He said he wants to continue the work he's started.

"I'm excited about my first term, learning about the city and listening to the residents, and I feel I have more to offer," he said.