Darrington mayor write-in candidate leads in early count

DARRINGTON — Only one name appeared on the ballot in the Darrington mayor’s race Tuesday — Wendy Welch-Houseman.

But numerous campaign signs showed support for a write-in candidate, Joyce Jones. That support proved to be a majority in early returns Tuesday night.

Jones was surprised by the margin.

"Oh, my gosh," Jones said.

She credited all the help she had putting up signs in town.

Welch-Houseman said she was still hopeful for the late returns.

The difference between the two candidates was subtle. Welch-Houseman was a bit more willing to entertain industrial development opportunities than Jones.

But both said they would probably support a proposal to build a wood-burning power plant if it can be operated cleanly.

In the only contested Town Council race, Kerry Frable appeared to be an easy winner over Cindy Gilbert .

Frable supported the new power plant, while Gilbert opposed it because of environmental concerns.

In uncontested races, Dan Rankin and John D. Rosselli Sr. were elected.

Reporter Scott Morris: 425-339-3292 or smorris@heraldnet.com.