Early voting ends today for bond plan

• By CHANTE DIONNE WARREN
• Advocate staff writer
• Published: Nov 7, 2009 - Page: 1A

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Interest in this year’s tax election has caused many of the 4,619 early voters to show up at polling places in advance of the Nov. 14 election, said Elaine Lamb, East Baton Rouge Parish registrar of voters.

Early voting, which started a week ago, ends today. Lamb said those still wanting to vote early can do so between 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“For a tax election there is usually a nice turnout, and so far, it shows that they are going to get out and vote. People are really interested in this race,” Lamb said.

The main issue facing East Baton Rouge voters this year is the 30-year, $901 million bond issue that would pay for projects including a new Parish Prison, juvenile services facility, public safety complex, drainage improvement, synchronization of traffic lights and the Alive Riverfront Park.

The tax includes a one-half cent sales tax and a 9.9-mill property tax.

Voters who went to the polls on Friday were split on whether they support or oppose the proposed bond issue.

“I voted against it,” said Dr. John Babin, of Baton Rouge, who said he will be out of town election day. “If they had separated it, I would have voted for it. I am for the new prison and the new police buildings, but I am against Alive.”

Bond issue proponent Steve Stephens, a Baton Rouge resident, said the tax is needed.

“Working downtown, I have a real interest in the future of downtown,” Stephens said. “The maintenance of the city, as far as drainage and sewage and infrastructure, are important.”

Stephens said he has voted early in previous elections and does so for convenience.

Jim Boren, of Baton Rouge, voted early and plans to be out of town election day.

“I voted for it. I think it’s a good idea,” Boren said. “I trust Kip Holden’s judgment. I think the whole package is necessary.”

Zachary resident Doug Hall said he exercised his early vote for the first time in an election. He voted against the tax proposal.