For the second time voters were able to cast their ballot on a Saturday, many in Bibb County took advantage while turnout was light in Houston.

Bibb County Chief Registrar Veronica Seals said 442 voters came out Saturday, which is more than double the turnout on Saturday in the March presidential primary, the first time Saturday voting was available.

She said she believed the increase had more to do with what’s on the ballot than voters being more aware of Saturday voting.

In March, the Bibb vote was for the presidential primary only, and with only the Republican side contested turnout was low.

This time voters are deciding on consolidation, the sheriff’s race and the transportation sales tax, as well as other state and local races.

In Houston, which has few contested local races, only 33 people showed up Saturday, according to elections assistant Beverly Nable. Although only a few voters showed up, those that did liked being able to vote on Saturday, she said.

“They were very appreciative,” she said. “They said it helped them out a lot.”

To contact writer Wayne Crenshaw, call 256-9725.