Charter amendment on election terms approved by Bonifay voters

Bonifay voters have approved a charter amendment that changes the city’s election schedule and extends the terms of elected officials. The referendum was held Tuesday, March 31, with voting taking place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Bonifay City Hall.

The measure passed by a vote of 58 to 47, according to Rusty Williams, Holmes County Supervisor of Elections. A total of 105 ballots were cast in the election, out of approximately 1,600 registered voters within the city limits.

The amendment updates the Bonifay City Charter to align municipal elections with the general election held in November of even‑numbered years. Municipal elections in Bonifay will now also align with state and national election cycles, creating a unified schedule for voters. The change also transitions the mayor and city council members from two‑year terms to staggered four‑year terms. Current terms will continue through November 2026, after which the new structure will take effect.

Williams emphasized the value of civic participation and encouraged residents to stay engaged in future elections.

“This is their voice, this is their opportunity to say how their government is run,” said Williams. “I would encourage everyone to be aware of what’s going on in their community and exercise their right to vote.”

The measure appeared on the ballot as Amendment No. 1 and required a simple yes-or-no vote. With its passage, the City of Bonifay will begin implementing the revised election and term schedule as outlined in the charter change.