NATCHEZ — The beginning of 2020 not only means the turn of a new decade; it is also the start of another election season for Natchez, Vidalia, Clayton and Ferriday residents.

Locals will be campaigning soon for offices of mayor and aldermen in Natchez, Vidalia, Ferriday and Clayton, the chief of police in Vidalia and Clayton and a special election for Justice of the Peace in Ferriday.

Two locals have already announced their campaigns for mayoral positions — including current Vidalia Mayor Buz Craft, who will be seeking re-election and Natchez Bed and Breakfast owner Dan Gibson who will seek election as the next Mayor of Natchez. Current Natchez mayor Darryl Grennell said he is not seeking re-election.

Natchez City Clerk Servia Fortenberry said the City of Natchez election qualification period begins Jan. 2 and ends Feb. 7 — 60 days before the first primary election on April 7. Runoff elections, if necessary, will be April 28, followed by the general election on June 2.

For Vidalia, Clayton and Ferriday elections, the qualification period is Jan. 8 through 10. Qualifying papers can be filled out in the Vidalia Clerk of Court’s office during regular office hours from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., said Deputy Clerk Deanna Magoun. All prospective candidates must fill out qualification forms before 4:30 p.m. on Jan. 10, Magoun said.

The Vidalia, Clayton and Ferriday primary election will be April 4. The general election is set for May 9. Early voting in the primary begins Mar. 21, Magoun said.