By BRUCE A. FASOL

Some county residents have received a letter from the Franklin County State’s Attorney that begins with an apology. The letters were sent to voters who had cast absentee ballots in the March 2012 primary election and early voting.

In the letter, Evan Owens points out that it is his duty to represent County Clerk Dave Dobill. The letter outlines an election challenge being made by primary election loser Kent Renshaw. Renshaw lost to Eric Dirnbeck in the race for Judge. Owens outlined the situation in a lettert o  affected voters which was obtained by FranklinCounty-News.com reading ( in part):

“The election was held in 12 counties and decided by less than fifty votes. Mr. Renshaw is attempting to cast doubt on the eligibility and the votes of many Franklin County citizens. You are receiving this letter because Mr. Renshaw is contesting your right to vote in the election , attempting to ‘spoil’ your ballot, or otherwise asking that your vote not be counted.”

Owens goes on to explain to voters contacted just why their vote is being called into question. “Some of the allegations of Mr. Renshaw included that a voter moved from a residence prior to the election or that the voter’s signature at the time they voted did not match the signature card on file with the county clerk.”

The Franklin County State’s Attorney’s office has contacted many of these voters who ballot is being contested. Owens has come to the conclusion that “The voter’s ballot was entirely appropriate and should be counted. ”

Owens is asking those that received letters to contact his office regarding the matter. He says a simple affidavit from the voters whose ballots are being questioned should put the matter to rest.