By Alison McFerrin

The Selma Times-Journal

The special election to fill the open Ward 3 seat on the Selma City Council is fast approaching, and candidates Greg Bjelke and Gwen Brown are hoping to acquire that seat on the council at all costs — literally.

According to campaign finance forms filed with the Dallas County Probate office, Bjelke spent $2,883.85 — about $100 less than he spent in the primary election. Brown spent $1,211.13 on — about $1,000 less than she did in the primary election.

Although Brown’s beginning balance was larger than Bjelke’s ($826.60 to $143.53), Bjelke’s ending balance was the greater of the two ($1,683.53 to $780).

Bjelke’s cash contributions totaled $4,050, with another $100 in in-kind contributions. Brown’s cash contributions totaled $1,165, and she did not receive any in-kind contributions.

In summary, Bjelke received $4, 250 and spent $2,883.85, or 61 percent. Brown received $1,165 and spent $1,211, or 104 percent.

Brown and Bjelke also had the highest contributions and expenditures from the primary election.

They were the only two candidates to raise and spend more than $1,000.