McKenzie opened qualifying for their city elections Tuesday in the hopes that people would take a serious interest.

Qualifying opened Tuesday July 6 at 7 a.m. for the office of mayor and city council.

The mayor and city council, who are elected in August, will likely focus on reviving the small town.

A fire earlier in the year destroyed a portion of the buildings on McKenzie's main street and it is hoped that something will be done to revive the area.

Current McKenzie Mayor Betty Stinson said she hoped the citizens, as well as those running for office, would take an interest in rebuilding the town.

"I'd like to see more people take an interest in the town and help build it up," said Stinson. "I'd like to see them try to rebuild it and not just let it die away."

Stinson is expected to run for a second consecutive term in office.

If elected it will be her third overall term having served four years in the early 80's.

All council members will likely defend their posts as well.

Melvin Shufford and Greg Lampley Sr. currently hold the District 1 seats.

Both are expected to run again in August.

Carl Tillery, Ava Huggins and Lester Odom Jr. currently hold the District 2 slots.

All three are expected to make another run in the upcoming election.

Elections will be held on August 24 with polls opening from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m.

A runoff will be held Sept. 14 if needed.

Those voting in District 1 will report to the McKenzie Community Center.

Voters in District 2 will vote at McKenzie Town Hall.

Qualifying fees for the mayor's race will be $25.

The fee to run for city council will be $10.

Mayor Betty Stinson said she hoped people would get out and vote during the upcoming election.

"By all means we want everyone to come out and vote," said Stinson. "This is a free country and one of the best things about that is being able to get out and vote."

Stinson said it was every eligible citizen's duty to go to the polls.

"It really is your civic duty to go out and vote," said Stinson. "You have the chance to go out and vote for whoever you want."

Because it was the first day of qualifying no one had officially entered the races at presstime.

Qualifying will remain open until July 20 at 4 p.m.