Jeffrey Friend is returning to Westover City Council.
Friend, who was appointed to the vacant 2nd Ward seat in December, won the only contested race in Tuesday’s municipal election, defeating Gary Marlin by nine votes, 40-31.
He said he’s looking forward to a full, four-year term.
“Now it’s time to move forward. It’s time to do the things that need to be done and get to work for the city,” Friend said. “I would say ‘thank you’ to the people who came out and supported me. I feel they want the same things I want — a safe neighborhood, clean streets and a clean city … I’m an older fella. I just want to leave a better, safer place for my granddaughter. That’s my plan.”
Alli Jackson picked up 25 votes in an uncontested race for the 1st Ward seat. Shawna Cross received 27 votes in an unopposed bid for the 3rd Ward seat.
The ward seats are only voted on by residents of that ward. Council-at-large seats are voted on by the entire city.
Duane Tatar, who, like Friend, was appointed to his council-at-large seat in 2021, received 89 votes on Tuesday, including 15 from the 1st Ward, 51 from the 2nd and 23 from the 3rd.
The council-at-large seats held by Edie Viola and Steve Andryzcik will go before the voters in 2024.
Bob Lucci received 122 votes in an uncontested run for mayor. He received 23 votes from the 1st Ward, 74 from the 2nd and 25 from the 3rd Ward.
The city’s mayor serves two-year terms.
City Clerk Sandie Weis said canvassing for the election will be held on Tuesday and results will be certified on June 23.
The new council term begins July 1.
All vote totals are unofficial until certified.
