Oelwein to Select New Mayor Today

Voters in Oelwein are going to the polls today to choose a new mayor.

The post came up for grabs when former mayor 36 year old Jason Manus resigned in August after being arrested over accusations of sexual abuse involving 2 young girls.

Manus has pleaded not guilty to 5 counts of sexual abuse involving two girls, ages 9 and 12, in incidents that allegedly took place at Manus' home in Oelwein in 2010.

After submitting his resignation, the Oelwein City Council initially appointed council person and mayor pro-tem Peggy Sherretts to lead the city.

However, a special election was set after citizens signed and submitted a petition calling for a vote.

On the ballot are Peggy Sherretts, Ryan DeHaven, June Griffith and Brandon Kieffert.

The only polling place is the Oelwein Community Plaza, and it will be open from noon to 8pm today.

Whoever wins the race will fill out the rest of the current mayor's term, until the next regular city elections in November of 2015.

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