The city of Ronceverte experienced great voter turnout in a historical election that saw four qualified candidates contend to become mayor.
Based on the number of votes for mayor alone, at least 211 residents cast their ballot on Tuesday, June 1.
It has been a difficult campaign season as the city grapples with water issues, the uncertainty surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic and the want to rebuild Ronceverte’s economy. But, after two meet the candidate forums and local interactions with those running for office, citizens had their chance to decide who should lead Ronceverte forward.
According to information provided by city of Ronceverte officials, the following tallies are the unofficial votes each candidate received:
Mayor: Eric Mercer- 37; Barbara Morgan- 18; Deena Pack- 149; Mark Mengel- 7.
Four Year City Council: Leah Sills- 137; Richard Beasley- 63.
Two Year City Council: Kathy King- 144; Aaron Ransom- 67; Tanya Hazelwood- 108.
Deena Pack will take over the position of mayor, Leah Sills will hold a council seat for four years and Kathy King and Tanya Hazelwood both will hold office for two year city council terms.
“I’d like to thank Barbara Morgan, Mark Mengel and Eric Mercer for their enthusiasm during this campaign,” said incoming Mayor Deena Pack. “I know that we all love Ronceverte and want only the best for everyone that lives here. I also want to thank the citizens of Ronceverte for coming out to vote in higher numbers than we’ve seen in a long time. I’m excited for our city’s future and can’t wait to start working with city council, the city administrator and the city employees to keep moving Ronceverte in the right direction.”
Terry Armentrout, city manager, also spoke regarding the high voter turnout.
“We were very happy with the large turnout,” said Armentrout. “Everything went very smoothly.”
The polls closed at 7:30 p.m. and the results were in by 10 p.m. on election day.
Although these results are unofficial, the official canvassing of the votes will take place on June 7, and certified results will be announced within 48 hours. Also, June 7 marks the final day that absentee ballots postmarked by election day will be accepted.
Those elected to office will begin their term on July 1, 2021.
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