All Election Day long, everyone at the polls, on the streets, and in the school pick-up lanes had pretty much the same thing to say about the City Council race: “Too close to call.” Little did they know how right they actually were.

 

By Robin Jovanovich and Jim Byrne

All Election Day long, everyone at the polls, on the streets, and in the school pick-up lanes had pretty much the same thing to say about the City Council race: “Too close to call.” Little did they know how right they actually were.

 

Before the polls closed at 9, City Clerk Dawn Nodarse said the turnout was steady at all six polling locations. But with all 14 districts reporting Nov-ember 8 and all but the absentee ballots counted, Joe Sack and Laura Brett won handily, with 1,975 and 1,869 votes respectively.

 

The election night drama continues, however, as the winner of the third Council seat has yet to be determined. Incumbent Catherine Parker and Republican challenger Rafael Elias-Linero raced to a photo finish, each compiling 1,529 votes. Absentee ballots will prove pivotal, but were not yet counted at press time. The New York State Supreme Court impounded County voting machines last week, delaying the entire process. All absentee ballots, emergency ballots, and affidavit ballots remained impounded by the Court as of November 16, awaiting an official timeline for opening.

 

Incumbent Joe Sack was beaming at Ruby’s Oyster Bar & Bistro, Republican headquarters on election night. “I’m very pleased. I hope the whole team pulls it out,” he said, holding his hand out to Mr. Elias-Linero. “It’s nice to be recognized. When running as an incumbent, you’re running on your record.”

 

Laura Brett said, “Win or lose, it was a great experience. Everyone was so supportive.” She added, “I’m proud we ran a positive campaign. In a small town like ours it’s important to focus on the issues.”

 

At Morgans Fish House, which served as Election HQ for the Dems, Ms. Parker was hesitant to declare anything. “Let’s hope those absentee ballots come through,” she said to supporters. “I want to fight for you all.”

 

 

Mr. Elias-Linero said he was “proud of his friends, and the fact that the people who know me trusted me. This election underscores the fact that every vote counts.”

 

Paula Gamache and Josh Nathan, who ran on the Democratic slate with Ms. Parker, garnered 1,234 and 1,320 votes respectively.

 

In his concession speech, Mr. Nathan, a member of the School Board, expressed pride in his ticket’s campaign and called Deputy Mayor Gamache and Ms. Parker “incredible”. Although disappointed in the end result, Mr. Nathan told supporters that he loves serving the community and will find ways to continue doing just that.

 

Starting in January, the balance on the City Council will be weighted in the GOP corner. There are currently five Republicans on the Council.