Qualifying to Begin Monday
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Wheeler County Citizens may soon throw their names in the hat to become the next Probate Judge and Chief Magistrate Judge, as qualifying for a special election for the position begins continued from page
on Monday, August 10.
Longtime Wheeler County Probate and Chief Magistrate Judge Jolinda F. Harrelson resigned from her position a few months ago due to health issues; her last official day in office was July 31. Wheeler County Sheriff Glenn Giles honored Harrelson for her work on the bench on August 1, as he said, “Today marks Judge Jolinda F. Harrelson's first official day away from the bench, and I wanted to take a moment to simply say thank you. For years, Judge Harrelson has faithfully served our community with integrity, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to justice. While most people only saw the work that happened inside the courtroom, those of us in law enforcement know there was so much more that happened behind the scenes.”
He continued, “Countless times, in the middle of the night, a deputy or other law enforcement officers would need a warrant, legal guidance, or advice. No matter the hour, Judge Harrelson was there to answer the call and provide the assistance we needed. That level of dedication often goes unnoticed by the public, but it made an immeasurable difference to those of us who relied on her.The responsibilities of a judge are demanding. Every day requires difficult decisions, careful consideration, and the ability to carry the weight of matters that profoundly affect the lives of others. Judge Harrelson handled those responsibilities with fairness, wisdom, compassion, and professionalism, earning the respect of law enforcement, attorneys, and the citizens she served.”
“On behalf of the Wheeler County Sheriff's Office, thank you for your years of dedicated service to our community and for the countless ways you supported law enforcement throughout your career. Your commitment, sacrifice, and willingness to serve—often when no one else saw it—will not be forgotten. We are grateful for everything you have done for Wheeler County,” Giles concluded.
The Wheeler County Board of Elections and Registration will now allow candidates who wish to run for the position to qualify for the special election, which is slated to run concurrent with the General Election on Tuesday, November 3. Qualifying will be held from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Monday, August 10, and Tuesday, August 11, and from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. on Wednesday, August 12, at the Wheeler County Board of Elections and Registration, located at 16 W. Forest Avenue Suite 101-B in Alamo. Qualifying costs $2,960.71 per candidate.
For more information, call (912) 568-0095.
