Early voting began earlier this week in Austin County for the May 1 general election with school board and city council races to determine.

Voters were eligible to hit the polls at early voting locations around the county starting Monday morning. Residents looking to vote early have until April 27 to do so. Otherwise, residents can head to polling locations on Election Day.

Many city halls are the early voting location in each municipality and on the first day of early voting at Sealy City Hall, 21 residents cast their ballots according to the city. Sealy City Hall is open for early voting on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. between April 19 and 23. On April 26 and 27, early voters can head to city hall between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.

In the general election, Austin County voters will determine winners in races for positions on such councils as Sealy City Council, Sealy ISD Board of Trustees, Wallis City Council and San Felipe City Council. The latter two municipalities will also determine a mayor.

Be sure to check out the Austin County Election Guide special section which features candidates’ responses to forum answers posed by The Sealy News. Some forums were also filmed on The Sealy News’ Facebook page live and while you’re there, be sure to like and follow for election coverage and results when they become available.