Former councilman throws his hat into the political ring

A former member of the Westminster City Council made a return to the political arena on Friday when he qualified to seek one of three available council seats in his city’s November election.  He’s Rusty Cater who, during his previous service on council, championed recreation for kids.  There are indications that a former councilman who accompanied Cater to the sign-up office might make a return trip this morning and enter the race himself.  Voters in four Oconee municipalities will choose mayors and council members on November 5, and already there’s some healthy competition for several offices in two of the cities.  But other than those who’ve already qualified, today is put up or shut up day for all residents of Salem, West Union, Walhalla, and Westminster who are thinking about running.  When the clock strikes 12 today, candidate books will close to prepare for the printing of the ballots.