Runoff: Ellis vs Washington; Central’s Reputation for Strong Turnout on the Line

    Central is known throughout the Parish for strong voter turnout, and this Saturday’s Council runoff election between political newcomer Jason Ellis and three term incumbent Ralph Washington may prove whether that reputation is deserved.
    On the heels of a low 38% turnout for the April 5th election, many are expecting a turnout of 15% or less this Saturday.  With the race for Central’s fifth and final Council seat as the only item on the ballot, a strong voter turnout would send the message that Central voters are still heavily invested in controlling the direction of the city.
    Jason Ellis is a Civil Engineer who works for Forte and Tablada handling infrastructure issues such as road construction, drainage, sewerage and floodplain management for municipalities across Louisiana.  He is a former Staff Sergeant and nine year veteran of the U.S. Army, seeing combat in Iraq as an Infantry Squad Leader.
    Ralph Washington is a retired plant worker and the owner of Red Stick Cleaners located in Baton Rouge.  He was appointed to Central’s first City Council and has twice been re-elected.  Including his initial appointed term, Washington is seeking his fourth term on Central’s City Council.