The Owen News to host forum connecting voters, candidates

The Owen News to host forum connecting voters, candidates

The Owen News is excited to host a free, open-to-the-public "Meet the Candidates" event on Monday, Oct. 19. The forum will be held at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, located at 24 N. Washington St. in Spencer, just ahead of the upcoming Nov. 3 general election. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with the official program getting underway at 6:30 p.m.

With voter turnout in Owen County historically running low, this event organized and moderated by The Owen News aims to help boost overall community interest and increase participation in the democratic process. The gathering gives residents a direct line to local candidates to hear firsthand about their visions and plans for the community. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions, share concerns, and connect with neighbors.

Any candidate appearing on the local ballot is encouraged to RSVP at info@theowennews.org by Wednesday, Sept. 30th. This invitation includes township trustees and candidates running unopposed.

For additional election-related resources, sample ballots, or registration details, you can visit the Indiana Secretary of State Election Division and the Indiana Voter Portal.

Early voting and Vote Center locations

Early voting is available from Oct. 6 through Oct. 30 at the Owen County Courthouse from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Additional early voting opportunities include Saturday, Oct. 24, from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. at both the courthouse and the Freedom Community Center; Saturday, Oct. 31, from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. at both the courthouse and Faith Baptist Church in Cunot; and Monday, Nov. 2, from 8 a.m. until noon at the courthouse.

Registered voters who want to request an absentee ballot in Indiana must do so before Oct. 22. The deadline to turn in your completed ballot is 6 p.m. on election day, Nov. 3. You may apply online or with an application form. Restrictions apply. Visit https://indianavoters.in.gov/ for more information.

The 2026 General Election will take place Tuesday, Nov. 3, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. at each of the following seven local vote center locations: Faith Baptist Church (11612 S.R. 243, Cloverdale), Family of God Church (2018 S.R. 67, Spencer), Clay Township Fire Department (5663 S.R. 43, Spencer), Freedom Community Center (5552 Freedom-Arney Rd., Freedom), Jefferson Baptist Church (4019 Main St., Coal City), Garrard Chapel Church (7410 W. S.R. 46, Bowling Green), and Spencer Christian Life Center (126 E. Market St., Spencer).