Candidates declare for Blufftown mayor and council; write-in period open until Sept. 2

Town staff reported candidate declarations for the upcoming municipal election: Joshua Ewing has declared for mayor; three candidates have declared for two council seats — Spencer Wade, Gary Hawes and Leonie Cook.

Erin Nelson, town manager, said the write-in declaration period is open through Sept. 2 at 5 p.m.; anyone who wants votes to count as a write-in must file declaration paperwork before that deadline. Nelson said the town will not hold a primary election for these contests and will proceed directly to the general election on Nov. 4, 2025. She and Chair Linda Sosa noted the county is drafting an interlocal agreement to allocate fixed election costs among municipalities; Bluff will share costs with other towns that hold elections.

Nelson said no primary will be held in Bluff because there were not enough declared candidates to trigger a primary; neighboring Blanding did qualify for a primary because it had five declared council candidates. Council members encouraged interested residents to contact the town clerk’s office to file write-in declaration paperwork and noted that write-in candidates should not expect a primary result — write-ins go straight to the general election.

No formal council action was required; the item was informational and staff will continue to coordinate with the county on election logistics and cost-sharing.