When Ripon Unified voters hit the polls in November, they’ll have a say so on how to conduct future school board elections.

Will they opt for the recent redistrict Trustee Areas or the familiar at-large process?

“It will be on this year’s ballot,” said Ernie Tyhurst, who, along with Kit Oase, put together the new trustee-representation areas in accordance with the U.S. Census 2010 figures.

He added: “Geographically, we’re a big district with plenty of farm land and unincorporated areas. We’re equal, population-wise. We’re not, geographically.”

By that, Tyhurst and Oase made sure each of the five trustee areas had close to the same number of people.

Both are seeking re-election. Ripon voters will continue to vote at-large, meaning that they cast their votes on any three candidates in their respective Trustee Areas.

Board President Donna Parks is currently Area 1 – the majority of this area is southwest to West Ripon Road and Main Street, to Wilma Avenue to North Ripon Road and Milgeo Road.

As of Friday, Parks has yet to file for another term with the San Joaquin County Registrar of Voters. Chad Huskey, who has served on a variety of school committees, is seeking the post.

Tyhurst is in Area 2. He represents those living southwest of Highway 99, from south of Main Street to the Stanislaus River.

In Area 3 is Oase, who handles those residing northeast of the freeway, to south of Milgeo and east of North Ripon Road.

The last day for candidates to file is 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8, at the SJC Registrar of Voters office, 44 N. San Joaquin St.

More information can be obtained by logging on to www.sjcrov.org.