Single vote decides rural Alberta town mayor

It was one of many tightest races in Alberta, coming right down to only a single vote. On Monday, Parrish Tung grew to become a 5 time period mayor for Elk Level by the slimmest of margins.

Tung gained with 233 votes. His solely opponent, Terri Hampson acquired 232 after a recount.

“You’re grateful for everybody who voted, not simply those that voted for me, however for everybody who exercised their proper to vote,” Tung stated.

“It simply goes to show that each vote does depend.”

Tung served on Elk Level council one time period as a councillor, and 4 instances as mayor earlier than being voted out final time period. Tung stated he was defeated by considered one of his greatest mates.

“Final time he beat me decisively, he beat me to a 2:1 margin, and this one… the city has by no means skilled such a good vote.”

Tung stated he’s glad to win, nevertheless it additionally means the city is split.

“Sadly, we did divide the city and it’s my job now to unite the city collectively.”

Hampson describes the expertise as a rollercoaster. She simply served her first time period as councillor for Elk Level. Whereas she respects the democratic course of, she stated it’s nonetheless a troublesome expertise to be defeated.

“Having one vote there isn’t any winner. We each have loads to do.”

Hampson stated she goes to make use of these subsequent 4 years to advocate for the city and proceed to do what she will be able to. She hopes residents who did vote this 12 months will rethink within the subsequent election.

“It’s pause for everybody to go that sure, your vote does matter. Getting out and exercising your duty to vote does matter,” Hampson stated.

“There’s a purpose for the whole lot, we are going to simply preserve shifting ahead.”

Elk Level chief administrative officer Ken Gwozdz stated this tight race exhibits democracy works.

“Each candidates have been very robust, very passionate in regards to the group, and the residents felt that they usually got here out and voted,” Gwozdz stated.

Gwozdz stated if the race ended up being a tie, the city would have had to attract a reputation.

“It’s fairly tough as a result of it doesn’t depart it within the fingers of the general public,” he stated. “It leaves it within the fingers of the returning officer and there’s a lot stress on that. It’s higher that the choice is made by the residents, by the general public.”

“I knew the race was going to be shut, however to return down to at least one vote, that could be a document for Elk Level.”