Madison Co. register of deeds candidates speak out before Election Day

MADISON COUNTY, Tenn. — Madison County voters will head to the polls Thursday. Among their choices will be register of deeds, a position that deals with land and real estate in the county.

There are three women on the ballot, but only incumbent Angie Byers and opponent Mitzi Price Merriweather are actively campaigning. The last candidate on the ballot, Shelia Godwin, said she announced her withdrawal back in June at an award reception because she wanted to focus on the race for the U.S. House District 8 seat.

“I would not seek the Register of Deeds further, and I did not even put any signs out and I put my support behind Mitzi Merriweather,” Godwin said.

With Godwin not actively running for the position, the focus of the race shifts to the other two candidates on the ballot. Both Byers and Merriweather feel their years of experience make them perfect for the job.

“I thought that it would be a good idea for me to run for office since I actually have experience being in the office for the past four years,” incumbent Angie Byers said.

“I just really want to use my skills and experience to bring new technology or else fresh eyes to the register’s office of Madison County,” challenger Mitzi Price Merriweather said.

Byers was appointed to the position after her mother, Linda Waldon, retired.

“Dealing with land and real estate, I’ve done that my whole entire career, so this is just another step to it,” Byers said.

Merriweather, who is running as an independent candidate, feels this is her opportunity to change the Register of Deeds office.

“I know Madison County. We’re tired of nepotism, we’re tired of the same system, and because I have the experience and the expertise, the residents of Madison County should make the wise choice,” Merriweather said.

Polls in Madison County will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday.