Saltillo mayor to resign

Jan. 31– Amid questions regarding his qualifications to serve as mayor of Saltillo, Larry Lowery will announce his resignation on Tuesday.

Lowery, who was elected to the post in 2008, failed to provide the proper documents to run for office, according to Hardin County Election Commission Chairman Johnny Bellis.

Bellis said a formal complaint was made against Lowery by Saltillo’s most recent former mayor, David Willis.

The complaint states Lowery failed to provide a certificate of citizenship, which is required to hold public office in the state, according to election officials.

Lowery said after he was convicted of felony drug charges in 1987, he served four months and 28 days and was subsequently able to reestablish his voting rights.

Election Commission Administrator Marilyn Adams said Lowery submitted proof of voter rights, but when contacted following the complaint could not provide the document proving citizenship.

Lowery called the matter an oversight and said he was unaware the document is needed.

"I thought I had everything squared away when I submitted the paperwork to run for office," he said.

Lowery said he has retained the services of Savannah law firm Reynolds and Reynolds, and said he intends to seek the proper documentation to return to office.

"Be it God’s will upon obtaining this document, I will again seek this office," Lowery said in his resignation letter.