Granite Falls voters give Romack strong early lead

GRANITE FALLS — Voters appeared to have given Lyle Romack a clear mandate in the mayor’s race in Granite Falls.

Romack was far out in front in early returns Tuesday night, ending former mayor Floyd "Butch" DeRosia’s bid to regain the office he had resigned.

"Oh that’s fabulous," Romack said. "I’m excited. I appreciate the votes of confidence and support from our community and I am very optimistic and excited about the future of Granite Falls."

DeRosia, 56, was asking voters essentially to reinstate him after he resigned in the spring amid harassment complaints from two city workers. He changed his mind a few months later and filed to run to complete the final two years of his term.

Romack, 63, was appointed to the City Council this summer. He challenged DeRosia’s managerial style more than his political positions, saying the city needs a mayor that does not micromanage.

DeRosia said past problems would not resurface, but voters appeared to want a change.

In the only contested City Council race, incumbent Richard Smith appeared to be defeating Charles Goodhope, but it was close.

Uncontested candidates Tom FitzGerald, Matt Hartman and Debbie Taylor also were elected to the council.