A Close Loss - 23 Votes

Dear Ward 8 Residents,

I am sure that many of you have now seen the results of the municipal election in which I placed second to Paul Hubert by just 23 votes.

When I reflect on the campaign I realize there was no way we could have come this close without the time, energy, and effort of our many dedicated volunteers. Close losses are always hard to take, but our democracy is rooted in the principal of majority rule whether that is one vote, twenty-three votes, or five thousand votes.

I have received many e-mails regarding a recount; this is not an automatic process. Under the municipal elections act, there are two ways a recount can be preformed. A majority vote of the current city council can order a recount, or an elector (or candidate) can petition the courts for a recount.

I am of the opinion that elections should not be decided by a court and I have no reason to believe that this was not a fair contest. Thus, I will not be petitioning for a court-ordered recount.

I will also not be making a formal request to city council, although several citizens have told me that they will be making requests on their own as electors. That is certainly their right and if council does decide to recount I will be there to watch and will support the outcome.

For my campaign, however, we accept the results as tallied (which will become official later in the week), and wish Paul Hubert all the best in his new position. There are many challenges ahead for the new council and I will certainly be there to support any activities that improve our city. Our platform received a resounding level of support and I am happy to continue to promote that agenda in any way I can.

Let me just say how proud Mel and I are to have the support and confidence of so many. There are no words that can describe my gratitude except thank you.

I look forward to the next challenge that presents itself and hope you will be there with me.

Many thanks,

Josh Morgan