Harrisonburg registrer Mark Finks & City Manager Ande Banks

Harrisonburg City Manager Andy Banks and Registrar Mark Finks discussed the upcoming August 4 dual primary election, which includes a Republican primary for U.S. Senate and a Democratic primary for two open City Council seats. Finks explained that voters must choose one party’s primary but may participate regardless of party affiliation, as Virginia does not require party registration. Early voting began June 18 at City Hall and runs through August 1, with additional Saturday and Sunday hours available, and Election Day polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. He also outlined deadlines for voter registration and mail ballots, encouraging residents to register by July 24. Looking ahead, Finks noted a busy November ballot that will include federal, local, and statewide races. Banks then highlighted city updates, including a lighter City Council agenda, ongoing regional planning efforts, and the complexity of long-term infrastructure and housing projects such as the University Boulevard realignment and Bluestone Town Center development. He emphasized that many projects take years of coordination and funding, and noted that state budget approval primarily impacts Harrisonburg through school funding support.