Little Mountain, S.C., October 23, 2025
News Summary
Little Mountain, S.C., is preparing for an upcoming council election with two open seats but no candidates have filed to run. This unusual situation means that potential winners will be determined by write-in votes, as the existing council members opted not to seek re-election. Town officials are considering a special election if there are insufficient write-in candidates. Mayor Jana Jayroe is running unopposed for re-election. The town’s small population contributes to this unique electoral circumstance, echoing a similar situation in nearby Silverstreet.
Little Mountain, S.C., is facing an unusual situation as the town prepares for an upcoming council election with two open seats, but no candidates have filed to run for either position. This unique circumstance has prompted election officials to suggest that while it is uncommon, it is not unheard of in rural South Carolina.
Voting will proceed as scheduled, and the potential winners of the council seats will be determined through write-in votes. The town, which has a population of fewer than 400 residents, has minimal traffic signals, characterized by only a caution light. Mayor Jana Jayroe, who has served for over a decade and is running for re-election unopposed, has highlighted the town’s village atmosphere, which encourages a close-knit community where family units and various local businesses are all within walking distance.
The absence of candidates running for council has taken many residents by surprise. Jessica Derrick, a Little Mountain resident, expressed disbelief over the lack of participants in the election, noting that residents typically expect to vote for either incumbents or new candidates. The current members of the council have opted not to run for re-election, which has contributed to the vacancy.
If no write-in candidates receive enough votes or they do not wish to assume the responsibilities of office, Mayor Jayroe has indicated that the town council and mayor may need to explore the option of a special election to stir interest in these positions. Sheli Madre, the Newberry County elections director, explained that limited state regulations exist concerning scenarios like this.
Mixed feelings about the lack of candidates are evident among community members. Some attribute the situation to general apathy or reluctance to commit to the demanding nature of elected office. Bruce Bookman, a longtime resident, is optimistic that someone will likely emerge to fill the vacancies, as has happened in the past.
Mayor Jayroe affirmed that even if both seats remain unfilled, she and the existing council members can continue to govern effectively, given that a quorum will still be achievable. Similar circumstances are noted in nearby Silverstreet, where two council seats are also unoccupied following the last election.
In preparation for the election, early voting in Newberry County has already begun at a designated voting location, allowing residents the opportunity to participate in the election process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is happening in Little Mountain, S.C. regarding the upcoming council election?
Little Mountain, S.C., has two council seats open for the upcoming election, but no candidates have filed to run for either position.
Will the election still take place even though no candidates have filed?
Yes, voting will proceed as planned, with potential winners determined by write-in votes.
What is the size of the town of Little Mountain?
The town has fewer than 400 residents and features only a caution light as a traffic signal.
What is the current status of the mayoral position?
Mayor Jana Jayroe, who has served for over a decade, is running for re-election unopposed.
What happens if no write-in candidates receive enough votes?
If no write-in candidates receive enough votes and do not wish to serve, the town council and mayor may consider a special election to generate interest in the positions.
What is the state of other nearby elections?
Similar situations are occurring in nearby Silverstreet, where two council seats are also open following the previous election.
Key Features of Little Mountain Election
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Town Population | Fewer than 400 residents |
| Council Seats | 2 open seats |
| Candidates Filed | No candidates |
| Voting Method | Write-in votes |
| Mayor’s Status | Unopposed re-election |
| Current Council Status | Current members did not run for re-election |
| Special Election Possibility | If no write-in candidates are viable |
| Nearby Elections | Similar situation in Silverstreet |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- WIS TV: Small Newberry County town faces election with no candidates
- Green Bay Press Gazette: Oconto County election results 2025
- Vancouver Sun: Former Vancouver mayor Kennedy Stewart launches court challenge
- BIV: Vancouver civic byelection for two council seats cost $1.6 million
- Vancouver Sun: Vancouver byelection 2025 – how, where, and when to vote
- Wikipedia: Elections in the United States
- Google Search: Local Government Elections
- Google Scholar: Municipal Elections
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Election
- Google News: Election News
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
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