The DeKalb County Democratic Party kicked off the local election season Saturday morning with their annual mass meeting, held at DeKalb County High School.
Party candidates for the Assessor of Property and Constable races publically announced their candidacies at the event.
The body was addressed by other prominent local Democrats as well, including former senate candidate George McDonald and James C. Hale, a candidate for state representative in 2010.
While Hale indicated that he is  considering another run for state representative, he said that redistricting and other factors will affect his decision.
"We have to get the final decision on redistricting, of whether or not that I am actually in the 40th District. It appears that I am. We'll know that within the next few days. We'll then make a decision," Hale told the assembly.
Hale also said that McDonald, who called for party unity in his own address, “is interested in this seat as well but he said to me that if James Hale runs, I won't run."
Incumbent property assessor Timothy “Fud” Banks, in announcing his intention to run for a fifth term in the office, recalled his life-long DeKalb County residency and faithful service in asking  for renomination and re-election.
"I've lived here for 55 years now and 33 of those years I have put in serving the people of DeKalb County,” Banks said.
“I spent 17 years in law enforcement and 16 years in office,” Banks continued, “My staff and I have 39 years of combined experience doing the job and we try to do the job well and keep the office updated for everybody who needs to use it. I'm asking now for your vote and support. I'd appreciate it,” he concluded.
Challenger Scott Cantrell also expressed his desire to serve as Assessor of Property.
"I'm the proud son of Jerry Lee and Jane Cantrell of Cantrell's Furniture. I am a proud Democrat,” Cantrell said.
“If you know me personally you know that I keep many irons in the fire. I have several jobs that I do besides working with my daddy but if elected all these things will cease and my first priority will be serving the people of DeKalb County. I am seeking the office of property assessor and I'd appreciate your support, vote, and prayers," Cantrell finished.
Johnathan Bryan Keith, also a candidate for Assessor of Property, cited his experience on the rescue squad in announcing his intention to run for the office.
"I've served on the rescue squad for several years,” Keith said. “I look forward to serving my community in other ways. I'd appreciate anything anyone does for me. Thank you.”
Carl Lee Webb, candidate for constable in the 6th District, buttered up the crowd by calling them a “good looking bunch of Democrats,” before announcing his run by saying, “If I'm elected I'll do anything I can for anybody. Any vote and support you could give me I'd appreciate it.”
Richard Bullard, also a 6th District constable candidate did not attend Saturday's meeting.
Incumbent 3rd District Constable Wayne Vanderpool, who is running unopposed for his fifth term, also announced as a candidate, saying,
"I've been the constable in the 3rd District for the last 16 years. I would appreciate anything anyone can do to help me even though I'm running unopposed. Thank you for your votes.”
Constable Mark Milam, another unopposed incumbent who is seeking a sixth term in the 5th District, also announced his intention to run.
"I'm thankful for the last five terms that I've served for DeKalb County,” Milam said. “Over the last five terms I've tried to be an asset to DeKalb County. I'm seeking re-election again and asking for each and everyone's support. I have a good working relationship with all the agencies and help them in anyway I can," he concluded.
Incumbent 7th District Constable Johnny King also addressed the meeting. King said, “I am running for constable in the 7th District. This is my second term. I was constable in the 4th District for several years. I appreciate your vote and support. Thank you.”
Incumbent constable Paul Cantrell is also seeking re-election in the 4th District, but was not present at the meeting.
The DeKalb County Democratic Primary will be held on March 6. Early voting is set for Feb. 15-28.
Democrats also announced their newly elected officers at the meeting.
Jim Judkins was re-elected local party chairman, while Larry Bain, Jordan Wilkins, and Kim Luton were named co-vice chairs.
Katherine Pack was elected treasurer and Joyce Hendrixson was named secretary.
All officers will serve through 2014.



(Larry Bain, Katherine Pack, Jim Judkins, Joyce Hendrixson, Jordan Wilkins, Kim Luton)