SUMMERSVILLE, WV (LOOTPRESS) – On June 13, 2023, citizens of Summersville will join those in several other cities and towns in West Virginia in going to to the polls to select who will lead the municipality for the next four years. The offices of mayor and recorder (a blend of vice-mayor and city recording secretary) will be on the ballot, along with 7 city council seats (two each for Wards 1, 3, and 4; 1 member for Ward 2).
The incumbent mayor, recorder, and all council members are seeking reelection. The city recorder, Gary Withee; the city councilmen from Ward 1, Wayne Halstead and Stevie Lerose; and the city councilman for Ward 2, Jim Epling, are all running unopposed.
Mayor Challenged
Incumbent Mayor Roger Shafer, an insurance agent by trade, is being challenged by the owner of a local restaurant, Matt Fitzwater. Shafer’s campaign is focused on the economic growth experienced in Summersville during his time in office. Fitzwater, a political newcomer, is running under the slogan, “it’s time for a change.”
Downtown
In Ward 3, the incumbents, businessman and recent state senate candidate, Mike Steadham and funeral home executive, Brandon Waters, will see a challenge from BJ Smith, a local businessman and chamber of commerce board member.
South Summersville
In Ward 4, Bruce Deitz, a teacher, will challenge the sitting councilmen, airport director, Chuck Shaw, and retiree, Eugene Underwood.
Election Details
Early voting runs from May 31 through June 10 and will take place at Summersville City Hall, located at 400 North Broad St. The hours for early voting are Monday through Friday 8AM–4:30PM and Saturday 9AM– 5PM.
Election Day is June 13 and ballots will be cast in the following locations:
- Ward 1: Nicholas County Court House
- Ward 2: City Hall
- Ward 3: Summersville Fire Station
- Ward 4: Summersville Grade School
Polls will be open from 6:30AM-7PM on the day of the election.
