Branson/Tri-Lakes News: Presley to seek second term as Branson mayor

Branson's first female mayor has announced she will seek a second term.

Mayor Raeanne Presley, co-owner of Presleys' Country Jubilee, said her name will appear on the April 7 ballot - though at this time, it is unknown who will run against the incumbent.

Residents can begin seeking candidacy for open city posts Dec. 16, according to the city clerk's office. The filing period closes Jan. 20.

Presley's campaign said she has supported tourism, open government, fiscal responsibility and regional cooperation. In April 2007, she told Springfield Business Journal that the city's finances and work force were top priorities.

"Residents who take pride in this area's quality of life understand the importance of maintaining Branson's success as a tourism destination through organization, vision, and a commitment to the values that put Branson on the map," Presley said in a news release.

Her public service record spans 25 years at both the city and state levels, including 10 years on the Branson Board of Aldermen (1985-95) and six years on the State Tourism Commission (2001-07), which she served as chairwoman for two years. Presley chaired the Skaggs Community Health Center Board of Directors and was the founding chair of the Skaggs Foundation. She also was chairwoman of the Springfield/Branson National Airport Board for two years.

Other seats up for election include Alderman Ward I, where Bob McDowell now serves; Alderman Ward 2, where Sandra Williams is the incumbent; and Alderman Ward 3, represented by Stephen Marshall, the clerk's office said.

For more information about filing, call the clerk's office at (417) 337-8522.

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