The first day to file for the mayor’s spot in Port Arthur is more than two weeks away but so far two people have already announced their intent early. And one is ready to talk issues.

A post on Thurman Bartie’s Facebook page announced he is running for mayor. Bartie is a local minister, teacher and funeral home director. The Port Arthur News reached out to Bartie but he did not respond by Wednesday afternoon.

Lowra Reado-Harrison, a local environmental specialist and minister, said she is also seeking the mayoral seat.

Reado-Harrison said she has nothing bad to say about incumbent Mayor Derrick Freeman and called him a nice guy.

She said she does not believe Bartie is the best candidate for the job, citing his past service as a public official.

Bartie served as the Precinct 8 Justice of the Peace until he was removed from his seat for improper judicial conduct in 2004. He was accused of myriad inappropriate behaviors, including using profanity in his court.

Reado-Harrison is a familiar name from her unsuccessful run for mayor in 2013. At that time, former mayor Deloris “Bobbie” Prince was running for reelection; Harold Doucet. was also a candidate. Reado-Harrison came away with about 2 percent of the votes.

“At that time my full concentration was on my mother; I was caring for my mother then,” Reado-Harrison said. Her mother passed away last June and Reado-Harrison moved on and is substitute teaching right now. “I loved a position offered to me a while back when my mother became ill and I had to make a decision.”

The first day to file for the mayor’s seat is Jan. 16 and qualifying ends Feb. 15 for the May election.