Election Day Across The Area - WVNS-TV

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MATOAKA- -- Tuesday is election day for many places in our viewing area.

Virginia held democratic primary elections.

In Tazewell County, voters headed to the polls to elect a democratic candidate for governor and lieutenant governor.

Tazewell County voters also choose a member of the Board of Supervisors for the Northern District of the county.

Much of our southern West Virginia demographic is casting their vote, Tuesday as well.

Voters in 25 southern West Virginia towns will elect mayors, recorders and town council members.

In Mercer County alone, municipal elections are being held in Oakvale, Athens, and Matoaka.

Voters in Matoaka are hoping Tuesday's election will be the first step in bringing new life to the once booming coal town. Voters we spoke with say they're anxious to get their town up and moving again.

They say they need a local government system that will support continued growth in their community. At this point, Burger Street, the main strip in Matoaka, has a computer software store, new diner, new laundry mat, and grocery store.

Community members say there are plans to re-build the old motel downtown, and continue adding other businesses to draw ATV tourists.

And they're looking to elect officials who have the town's best business interest in mind.

A little history about who's on the ballot, current Mayor, Lamar Lancaster is running against Michelle Lyons for Town Recorder.

Former Mayor, Randy Radatz is back on the ballot, running for Mayor.

He's running against current councilman Todd Colonna.

Others running for Mayor include Alan Graham, Jack Coburn, and Richard Wall.

And there are 5 spots open for council.

Eight candidates are on the ballot, including former Town Recorder, Kelly Colonna. The polls close at 7:30 in Matoaka.

Joe, you might want to check your facts. Matoaka Maddies Diner was open for business yesterday and I'm sure it is legit, because everything in Matoaka is being done "by the book" and they "call and check on everything before they take action". If you want to know for yourself, call the Health Department and check on it. I suggest everyone do the same.

The diner in Matoaka was shut down because they were never inspected by the health department and didn't have a town business license. The grocery store and laundrymat don't have town business licenses either. See how the "new government" is running things? The same new mayor and his wife (a new councilman) are the owners of these businesses. If they are trying to avoid the laws on opening businesses, how can we expect them to follow the laws as a new administration? There is something very shady about that couple and I don't believe for a minute that they are doing what is best for the TOWN - only what is best for their wallets.

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