Fewer Sarasota residents vote early in city election

As of the close of the one-week early-voting period for the Sarasota City Commission election, 872 residents had voted.

The number of early voting was 198 voters below target compared to the 2011 City Commission election. During that election, 1,070 residents voted early. Nine candidates ran for three district seats.

This election, six candidates are running for two at-large City Commission seats. More than 184 residents cast their ballots on Saturday — the last day of early voting. Historically, the pace picks up during the last day of early voting during city elections.

“It’s our busiest day we’ve had all week,” said Tracy Smith, voter services co-ordinator with the Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections office.

Election day is March 12. The polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m throughout the city. Residents can visit here to find their polling location.

To win one of the at-large seats, a candidate must get 50% of the total votes. If none of the six candidates receives more than 50% of the vote, and, thus, a runoff election is required, that election will be held May 14. The top-three votegetters would advance to the runoff election.

If one candidate wins outright, the next top-two candidates will take part in the runoff election to fill the second at-large seat.