Chattanooga Free Press endorsements and what you need to know for election day

Garvin Colburn casts her ballot during early voting at the Hamilton County Election Commission on Amnicola Highway on Saturday, Oct. 22, 2016, in Chattanooga, Tenn.
Garvin Colburn casts her ballot during early voting at the Hamilton County Election Commission on Amnicola Highway on Saturday, Oct. 22, 2016, in Chattanooga, Tenn.

Endorsements

In the March 7 Chattanooga election, the Chattanooga Free Press recommends:

Andy Berke,Mayor "We ... believe [Andy] Berke offers the most realistic plan for the city at this time."

Chip Henderson, District 1 "We believe [his council] experience gives Henderson, a construction company owner, the edge for re-election in District 1."

Jerry Mitchell, District 2 "We believe residents in Chattanooga's District 2 have enjoyed sound, pragmatic leadership from first-term Councilman Jerry Mitchell in the last four years."

Russell Gilbert, District 5 Chattanooga City Councilman Russell Gilbert is a glass-half-full kind of guy, and we endorse him for a third term.

Chris Anderson, District 7 "[W]e believe [Chris Anderson] offers the best opportunity to provide active and forward-thinking leadership for District 7.

Anthony Byrd, District 8"[W]e are suggesting voters look at [Anthony] Byrd, a high-energy candidate who says he wants to "be the voice for the people."

John Kerns, District 9 "Of [District 9 candidates], we prefer John Kerns, 37, who started a business in the district and created more than 80 jobs for Chattanoogans."

Two City Council members - Ken Smith of District 3 and Carol Berz of District 6 - are running unopposed in the election. Darrin Ledford is the only candidate running in District 4, currently represented by Larry Grohn, who is running for mayor.

KEY ELECTION DATES

- Last day to request absentee ballot: Feb. 28

- Early voting period: Wednesday-March 2; Election Day - March 7

EARLY VOTING LOCATIONS

- Brainerd Recreation Center, Monday-Saturday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 1010 N. Moore Road Chattanooga, TN 37411

- North River Civic Center, Monday-Saturday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 1009 Executive Drive #102 Hixson, TN 37343

- Election Commission Office, Monday-Friday: 8 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 700 River Terminal Road Chattanooga, TN 37406

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