The filing deadline for the Barnwell and Williston city and town council elections is approaching and there appears to be no new contenders in the ring vying for a seat at the municipal tables.

The deadline for filing is June 26 and the elections are Sept. 8 with three open seats in Barnwell and four in Williston.

In Barnwell, City Administrator John Zawacki said incumbent city councilmen Ben Duncan and Robert Pattillo have filed for the race and both are seeking re-election.

Duncan is running for a fifth term, Duncan said.

He said some of his goals include Circle improvements, beautifying Fuller Park, parking regulations and the continuing work on the new city hall.

Duncan invited Barnwell residents to council meetings for their input and ideas.

J.T. Atkinson is reaching toward a second term and though he hasn't filed yet, he said he would by the deadline.

In Williston, Mayor Tommy Rivers and council members Wanda Matthews and Milton Widener have filed for re-election, said Town Clerk Pat Fowler.

Holmes announced during a June 8 Williston Town Council meeting he would put a bid in for re-election.

Widener has sat on council for four terms and he said he would like to see more civic participation with residents.

"I just hope everybody comes out to vote," said Widener.

Rivers has been mayor since 1993, and he thinks a changing of the guard would be harmful to Williston.

"We're at a crossroads economically in Williston and it's crucial not to change office holders at this time," he said.