In a special election decided by just 16 votes Tuesday, Rockey Burgess defeated Mike Looper to win the Williamston Ward Two seat.
Burgess had 179 votes to Looper’s 166. A margin of only three votes separated the candidates until absentee ballots were counted. Burgess garned thirteen of the sixteen absentee ballot votes.
“I want to thank the voters of Williamston for their vote of confidence in my abilities to lead this town toward a positive future,” Burgess said. “I look forward to working with our mayor and council to insure Williamston a prosperous future. I promise to do my best to live up to their expectations.”
Burgess said, “I wish Mike Looper the best of luck and hope he will continue to be active within our community.”
Burgess did not stay around for the vote count however his wife Wendy did. She and Looper shared a hug after the totals were announced.
After the totals were announced, Looper said, “The town did not lose in this election. Rockey and I are still friends.”
Looper thanked the voters that supported him and everyone who came out and voted. “I wish the best for the mayor and council,” Looper said.
Williamston Mayor Mack Durham said, “There were two good men running in this election. We now have a full council seated and are ready to move forward with the business of the town.”
