Melton re-emerges as candidate

By By Lynette Wilson / staff writer
Jan. 7, 2003
W.H. "Billy" Melton came out of retirement Monday to qualify as a candidate for District 1 supervisor a position he held for four terms, from 1976-91.
Melton's decision came on the same day current District 1 Supervisor Hank Florey, 67, announced that he will not seek a third term. Melton said his announcement had nothing to do with Florey's retirement, and that he had already decided to run against him.
Florey cited his age and the desire to travel and spend more time with his grandchildren as his reasons for retiring.
Melton was not prepared to speak about his reasons for seeking office, but said, "I will announce a complete platform after the qualification deadline."
In the District 3 constable's race, Ray Null submitted his qualifying paperwork. Null served 28 years as District 3 constable before resigning his office to run for sheriff in 1999.