Macomb, IL – Two incumbents won re-election to the Macomb City Council. But no one won enough votes in two other contests, forcing run-off elections in April.
Alderman At Large
This was the most crowded field in yesterday's election, and none of the candidates managed to claim an outright victory.
In the Macomb primary, a candidate needs to receive more than 50% of the votes to win. Otherwise a run-off election is held in April between the top two vote-getters.
In this contest, Don Wynn topped the field with nearly 41% (938 votes).
Wynn hopes to build on the name recognition he has developed from his time on the city council, the park board, and various other organizations to win in April.
"Run another campaign and probably meet with a few more people and, hopefully, sway a few more people into coming over," Wynn said.
Wynn will square off against Christopher Zimmerman in the April run-off election. Zimmerman, a WIU student, received more than 25% of the vote (588 votes) to finish second in yesterday's election.
Those who finished out of the running are Jim Von Kannon with nearly 17% (389) and Terri VanMeenen-Misfeldt with 16% (378).
Third Ward Alderman
Lou Gilbert has served on the city council for ten years, and voters yesterday agreed to give him another four-year term.
Gilbert credits his experience and his constituent service.
"I try to represent them. If somebody calls me I try to go answer the call personally. I don't think everybody on the council does that," Gilbert said.
Gilbert defeated challenger Aaron Fosdyck, 64% to 36% (251 votes to 143).
Gilbert also defeated Fosdyck four years ago.
Fourth Ward Alderman
Retired Dr Thomas Koch led the field of three candidates with 46% of the vote (401 votes). However, that fell short of the level needed to win the seat so Koch will face second place finisher David Bosworth in April.
Bosworth received nearly 34% of the vote (293 votes) to earn a rematch.
Sean Dixon finished out of the running with 20% (175 votes)
Fifth Ward Alderman
Dave Dorsett was elected to second term in office. Like other incumbents, he credits his record as a city council member.
"I've tried to be there for everyone. I've been very engaged. I enjoy the work and I have had a real good response from the constituency," Dorsett said.
Dorsett said it's a humbling experience to serve on the city council.
Dorsett turned back a challenge from Sue Tex. 62% of voters (355 votes) chose Dorsett, while Tex received 38% (215).
Other Races
City Clerk Melanie Falk ran unopposed and was elected to another term. She received 2,232 votes. City Treasurer Ron Ward also ran unopposed to earn another term. He received 2,173 votes.
The McDonough County Clerk's office said the turnout was 29.87%. 2,572 of Macomb's 8,612 registered voters cast ballots.