Williamston voters will go back to the polls Tuesday, Nov. 20 to decide who will serve as the town’s mayor and represent council Ward 4. Incumbent mayor Carthel Crout and challenger Dr. Mack Durham are in a runoff to decide whether Crout will continue as the mayor or if voters want a change.
Durham and Crout were the two top vote getters in a three way race that included former mayor Phillip Clardy. Less than 30 votes separated the three candidates and vote counting came down to absentee and provisional ballots to determine who would make it to the runoff election.
“I want to thank the citizens of Williamston that voted in support of me for mayor in the Nov. 6 election,” Crout said. “We have run the town for the past four years according to the laws, rules and policies set forth by Federal, state and council. Our stable financial situation speaks for itself.”
Crout said the town has completed many needed projects without increasing taxes or fees.
“I would like to continue the many successes and programs we have started,” he said.
Durham said he thanks voters for their support and encourages them to get back out for the runoff election Tuesday.
“I feel exonerated for the outpouring of support that has been put behind us this last two weeks,” he said. “I am looking forward to making positive changes in our community. We have a bright future ahead of us.”
Durham also thanks Phil Clardy and Elaine Wilson for their endorsements.
Durham has goals to improve the town in a number of areas including cutting expenses, improving the overall look of the town and improving community pride. He also said he wants to improve law enforcement and work with neighborhood watch groups.
Williamston voters will also decide who will serve on the Ward 4 seat on council.
Incumbent councilman Mike Looper received 445 votes and challenger, former councilman Otis Scott, received 481, making them the two top vote getters. Political newcomer Elaine Wilson received 244 votes.
Scott said, “I want to thank the people for their support in the primary election and would appreciate their support in the runoff.”
Scott said if elected, “I will give the people a representative they can count on to work and take care of their needs, and be available, 24 hours a day.” He said he will focus on spending cuts he believes the town needs.
Looper said, “I appreciate all that voted for me and would like to have their vote Nov. 20.”
“I want to see the town grow and have people be proud to live here,” he said.
Election results will be posted on The Journal website as soon as they are available Tuesday.
