For the first time in perhaps a voter's lifetime, Ohio Republican votes really count in a presidential primary election. Six presidential candidate names are on the March 6 primary ballot, although some have already dropped out of the race.

The local results will be interesting to watch to see the leanings of Bluffton Republicans. Presidential names on the ballot are:

o John Huntsman
o Ron Paul
o Rick Perry
o Mitt Romney
o Rick Santorum
o Newt Gingrich

Other important Republican races on March 6 include decisions on which county commissioner candidates will advance to the November general election.

Republicans will vote for one in the race with (one winner advances to November):
o Lynn Mohler
o Jay Begg

And will also vote for one in the second race with (one winner advances to November):
o Dennis J. Fricke
o Cory Noonan
o Paul Basinger

All Bluffton voters will decide the fate of a one-quarter percent income tax. If passed it will continue for 15 years and will be used for water and sewer capital improvement projects.

New to this primary election are new borders for Bluffton precincts. The five Bluffton precincts were reduced to three earlier this winter. Click for a precinct map.

Polls are open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Watch The Icon Tuesday night for election results.

Click to view the Allen County board of elections web site.