By Patrick Baron
BLOOMINGTON – Ward 8 alderman Diana Hauman’s ballot challenge was officially put down today by the Bloomington Board of Election Commissioners.
Following a series of testimonies and evidence presented by Bruce Meeks, the board unanimously voted to dismiss the evidence and allow Hauman to keep her name on the ballot for the spring election. Board Chair Denise Williams explained that the evidence that was presented wasn’t enough to warrant action.
“Based on the evidence, all we had was two pieces of blank paper and nothing else was put into evidence,” said Williams. “Can’t make a decision on a blank piece of paper.”
After the board voted, Meeks expressed frustration that he faced an uphill battle in the ballot challenge.
“Unlike the candidates, there’s no ‘objector’s guide’ published by the Secretary of State or by this local commission,” said Meeks. “That’s a little discriminatory, in my opinion, that the objectors don’t have a sample form like the candidate has, or any other guidance or direction.”
The Bloomington Board of Election Commissions will meet Monday to discuss and deliberate the ballot challenges against mayor Tari Renner, alderman Joni Painter, and alderman candidate J. Alan Balmer.
Patrick Baron can be reached at [email protected].
