Some Tri-City school, city races still close

A number of close city council and school board races in the Tri-Cities remain tight as election crews work through stacks of uncounted ballots.

Pasco City Councilwoman Rebecca Francik’s lead over challenger David Milne, owner of Milne Nail Power Tool & Repair, narrowed by three votes, according to updated tallies released Thursday by the Franklin County Auditor.

Francik still has more than 53 percent, or 3,491 votes, to Milne’s 3,067 votes.

In Richland, Dori Luzzo Gilmour continued to cling to her lead for the city council by 78 votes. Incumbent Greg Jones’ name was on the ballot, but he is not seeking re-election. If Gilmour doesn’t win, the council must appoint someone to fill the position.

In the Richland School District election, Jill Oldson and Brett Amidan are neck and neck for a seat being vacated by board member Mary Guay. Oldson led Thursday by 91 votes. She received 5,203 votes to Amidan’s 5,112.

Vanessa Coates is only four votes ahead of Joseph Chapin Jr. for a seat on the Benton City Council. Coates has 235 votes to Chapin’s 231.

In Kahlotus, Marcia Robitaille is tied with Robert L. Hagans for a seat on the city council. Both have 19 votes.

The Benton County Auditor estimates there are about 4,500 ballots left to count, and the next tally will be released at 4:30 p.m. Nov. 6.

Franklin County has 643 ballots left, and its next count will be available at 5:30 p.m.

This story was originally published November 5, 2015 at 5:56 PM with the headline "Some Tri-City school, city races still close."